The Caregiver Role

A caregiver is a responsible family member or friend who is able to provide physical care, observation, and emotional support for you during the transplant.

In the event that you become ill while you are an outpatient, your caregiver can summon assistance if you are not able to do so.

Caregiver Responsibilities

Typical responsibilities of the caregiver include:

• Making arrangements

1. Transportation to and from the clinic
2. Tracking appointments

• Providing emotional support
• Providing physical care
• Taking care of the central intravenous line

1. Helping the patient with administration of oral medications
2. Recording medications taken
3. Giving intravenous fluids and medications using a pump device
4. Identifying changes in the patient’s condition
5. Obtaining medical care if needed
6. Reporting symptoms to health-care staff

• Maintaining the home environment

1. Cleaning
2. Food preparation

• Gathering information
• Serving as a communication link with other family members and friends.

The caregiver has a demanding role in helping with your treatment and recovery. It is important to consider in advance who would be able to be your caregiver.

Our staff will help your caregiver prepare with classes that cover topics such as food safety, care at home, and long-term recovery. Individualized instruction is provided about your medications and other topics. We also provide extensive, detailed written materials and helpful information about support groups for caregivers, organized by our social work service.

Transition Services offers individual education and helps with planning for the care of your transplant recipient at home after a transplant.

Support for caregivers 
Caregivers of a transplant recipient need to take care of themselves as well. We provide support for caregivers through support groups and individual appointments with social workers and pastors.

The “Patient & Caregiver Resource Manual” that you will receive when you arrive for transplant in Seattle includes resources and suggestions that will help you take care of yourself and other family members during this stressful and challenging time.

Volunteer services for patients and their families
In addition, you can ask for the support of a Patient Family Volunteer. Volunteers can offer companionship and practical assistance for families and caregivers of patients who are from outside Western Washington, with no local support.

This volunteer can meet you and your family at the airport when you arrive, and provide transportation for grocery shopping and errands. Volunteers will also join you and your family for social activities such as movies, sightseeing, or restaurant meals, or will take children and teens on outings to give you a break. Contact the director of Volunteer Services at (206) 288-1071 for more information.

April 2007