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Cardiac transplantation: a comprehensive nursing perspective. Part 2
1Division of Cardiovascular Surgery and Surgical Nursing, University of Miami School of Medicine-Jackson Memorial Medical Center, FL 33101.
Heart & Lung : the Journal of Critical Care
|November 1, 1988
Summary
Postoperative care for cardiac transplant recipients involves managing standard surgical issues alongside unique challenges from immunosuppression. Long-term monitoring is crucial to address infection, malignancy, and graft atherosclerosis risks.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Immunology
- Transplantation Medicine
Background:
- Cardiac transplant recipients share postoperative concerns with general cardiac surgery patients.
- Immunosuppression and immunocompetence present unique challenges for this population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the distinct considerations in postoperative care for cardiac transplant recipients.
- To emphasize the importance of managing long-term effects of immunosuppression.
Main Methods:
- Review of current immunosuppressive protocols.
- Identification of potential long-term complications.
Main Results:
- Immunosuppressive agents (e.g., azathioprine, prednisone, cyclosporine) blunt immune response.
- Long-term immunosuppression is associated with increased risks.
Conclusions:
- Follow-up care must address infection, malignancy, and accelerated graft atherosclerosis.
- Maintaining quality of life requires careful management of immunosuppression-related issues.