The careful post-operative monitoring is focused on the function of the transplanted kidney and close observation for any sign of complication or rejection of the kidney.
A transplanted kidney is a foreign object and reacting against it as a natural response, which is called rejection. Close monitoring allows a timely intervention and treatment.
Dialysis could be required after the transplant operation. One reason is development of acute temporary changes in the kidney between the time it is removed and transplanted to the recipient. The other reason for dialysis is to provide while the kidney is not working. Infection is one of the most common complications of a transplant. A simple infection could be life threatening to a person with a transplant.
After transplantation, a patient is usually brought back directly to the Transplant Unit. There are patients who go to the Surgical Intensive Care Unit for a day or two. An hourly monitoring would be required on the first day immediately post-operative period. Blood would be drawn once a day and the patient would be assisted in taking the first walk within 12 hours after surgery and increase every day to prevent complications of pneumonia and blood clots.
Kidney recipients are mostly discharged after five days time. Drinking clear liquids and eating solid food can be started from the next day depending on the tolerance power. Kidney recipients are advised to check the blood sugars four times a day after transplantation. Blood pressure should be checked after the first month if there are complaints of blood pressure.
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