Things You'll Need:
- Fruits
- Antimicrobial Soap
- Masks
- Fruits
- Masks
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Step 1
Carry a beeper, and make sure you always have access to a telephone.
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Step 2
Pick a designated driver who can be on standby for you. When your call comes and your donor kidney becomes available, you may not feel up to driving yourself to the transplant center.
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Step 3
Phone your airline regularly for flight schedules if your transplant center is out of your driving range and you plan to fly there. Try to have a direct flight lined up. Prepare an alternative travel plan in case you're not able to fly there for any reason.
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Step 4
Eat right. (See "How to Eat While on Dialysis.") Avoid salt, potassium and high-protein foods. Choose high-fiber foods to keep your bowels moving well.
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Step 5
Take your medications as prescribed, and continue to have your dialysis three to five times a week.
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Step 6
Keep up your normal activities, as much as possible. Don't put your whole life on hold. If you experience great anxiety and overwhelming fear, talk to a counselor or a transplant social worker.
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Step 7
Avoid infection. Wash your hands thoroughly, stay away from people who are sick, ask your family members to wear masks if they have colds or flu.
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Step 8
Talk to fellow transplant candidates. At many transplant centers, a pre-operative support network is available, offering a "buddy" system that brings together people who are waiting for transplants.
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Step 9
Do not eat or drink anything when your call comes. Your stomach must be empty for surgery.
