How to Survive a Bone Marrow Transplant
A bone marrow transplant is performed when healthy bone marrow has been destroyed by disease or as a result of radiation or chemotherapy treatments. Bone marrow stem cells may come from your own bone marrow or from a donor's. Bone marrow procedures are normally performed in a medical facility that specializes in this type of treatment. If you have a bone marrow transplant, you'll have to take certain precautions afterward to increase your chances of survival.
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Instructions
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After the procedure you are taken to a special room in the hospital that has been sanitized to prevent infection. Visitors wear masks, gowns and gloves. Flowers and plants are prohibited in this special room. You wear a surgical mask and gloves when leaving the room.
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Normally you are in the hospital four to six weeks, with two to four weeks in the special sanitized room.
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You get antibiotic and anti-virus medications to prevent infection. You are fed through an intravenous tube until you can eat on your own.
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You receive blood transfusions increase the white blood cell count and treat or prevent infection.
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Tips & Warnings
It takes four to six months to recuperate. Arrange with a family member or friend to take care of pets, pay bills and do household chores while you are recuperating. Talk to your insurance company about your procedure and any payments you may incur. Schedule time off work.
A bone marrow transplant is a serious medical procedure and avoiding infection is of the utmost importance. Follow your doctor's instructions on preventing or treating infections and advise friends and family not to visit if they are sick or have been exposed to infectious bacteria.
