Post Transplant Program Treatment

Upon admission for rehabilitation, our treatment team assesses the patient's individual needs and skills, and then develops a treatment plan that focuses on improving physical and cognitive skills to assist the patient in everyday living.

Since patients who have undergone a transplant are in a weakened physical condition, an initial treatment goal will be to improve the patient's strength and endurance through proper nutrition.

The interdisciplinary treatment approach utilized at Baylor involves a physiatrist (a physician specializing in physical medicine and rehabilitation), occupational therapist, physical therapist, rehabilitation nurses, therapeutic recreation specialist, speech-language pathologist, neuropsychologist/psychologist, respiratory therapist, clinical nutritionist, care coordinator and social worker. The treatment team is designed based on the patient's individual needs.

The physiatrist provides medical management of the patient during rehabilitation, working closely with the patient's transplant team for special medical needs. This approach allows continuity of patient care throughout the recovery process. Our proximity to Baylor University Medical Center offers convenient access to services needed by the post-transplant patient, such as follow-up testing, education and counseling. Also located near the Baylor campus is the Twice Blessed House, which are apartment homes for transplant patients and their families before and after the procedure.

Our registered nutritionists provide individual evaluations and design dietary plans based on patient needs. By improving nutrition, the patient will be better able to participate in therapy.

The nursing staff interfaces with the transplant team to meet the unique medical needs of post-transplant patients. In therapy, the patient may work on basic functional activities such as dressing, grooming or feeding, cognitive abilities, and physical abilities such as mobility, strength and endurance. Development of these skills is important for the individual's successful re-entry into social and family environments, as well as return to work.

Needed Support
Individuals who have undergone a transplant face many physical, emotional and psychological issues throughout the transplant process. At Baylor Institute for Rehabilitation, the neuropsychologist, chaplain, and social worker are available to provide special support to patients and their families during rehabilitation.

The entire treatment team works to inform the patient and family of treatment progress and goals. They also provide referrals to additional support services, assist the family in the transition from rehabilitation to home and the community at discharge and help to arrange educational, equipment or other special needs.