Supporting You and Your Child After Kidney Transplant Surgery

During the first month after your child's kidney transplant surgery, our transplant team will closely keep an eye on them.

Children don't always show signs of complications post-transplant. They need blood work two to three times a week for a few weeks after surgery to make sure no problems arise.

You should plan to stay in the Pittsburgh area during this time so we can watch your child for any problems.

Most children can go home around one month after surgery. You'll still need to come to Pittsburgh for routine post-transplant testing.

Your care team at UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh is always here to support you, your child, and your family.

Caring for Your Child at Home Post-Transplant

You'll have many things to keep in mind once you get home. To help, we'll give you a Pediatric Kidney Transplant Patient Education Guide.

Our post-transplant guide will help you as you care for your child at home and includes:

  • Contact information for all your child's care team members.
  • Signs and symptoms that should prompt you to call our team.
  • What to know about your child's meds, including which over-the-counter drugs your child can and cannot use.
  • How to care for your child's surgical site.
  • Guidelines for physical activity and nutrition.
  • Tips for preventing sickness and infections.
  • Other aspects of daily life such as pets, sun care, dental visits, and going back to school.

Tips for Success After Your Child's Kidney Transplant

Before you and your child leave the hospital, we'll give you the details you need about:

  • Medications
  • Follow-up appointments and testing
  • Physical activity

To make sure your child's recovery goes smoothly, please follow your care team's instructions carefully.

During post-kidney transplant care, remember to:

  • Always keep a list of your child's meds handy.
  • Make sure your child takes all meds as prescribed.
  • Plan ahead for prescription refills so that you do not run out of meds.
  • Have your child wear a medical bracelet that says they're a transplant recipient.
  • Know medication side-effects, signs of kidney rejection, and symptoms of illnesses. Contact our team if you notice any of these.
  • Take your child for all their blood work and follow-up visits.
  • Be patient with yourself and your child as you both adjust to life after transplant.

Learn More About Life After Pediatric Transplant Surgery

From the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS)

Contact the Kidney Transplant Program at UPMC Children's

If you have questions, concerns, or unexpected needs about your child's kidney transplant, contact our team at 412-692-5182.