Lung Transplant Team
The group of specialists involved in the care of patients who are undergoing a transplant procedure is often referred to as the "transplant team." Each individual works together to provide the best chance for a successful transplant.
The lung transplant team consists of:
- transplant surgeons - physicians who specialize in transplantation and who will be performing the surgery. The transplant surgeons coordinate all team members. They follow a patient before the transplant and continue to follow the patient after the transplant and after discharge from the hospital.
- pulmonologists - physicians who specialize in the function and disease of the lungs. Pulmonologists will help manage a patient before and after the surgery.
- transplant nurse coordinator - a nurse who organizes all aspects of care provided to a patient before and after the transplant. The nurse coordinator will provide patient education and coordinate the diagnostic testing and follow-up care.
- social workers - professionals who will provide support to your family and help your family deal with many issues that may arise including lodging and transportation, finances, and legal issues.
- financial coordinators- dedicated transplant financial coordinators will work work closely with yourself and your family supporting your insurance needs.
- dietitians - professionals who will help a patient meet his/her nutritional needs before and after the transplant. They will work closely with you and your family.
- physical therapists - professionals who will help a patient become strong and independent with movement and endurance after the transplantation.
- pastoral care - chaplains who provide spiritual care and support.
- nurse practitioner - an advanced practice nurse who, in collaboration with transplant pulmonologists, medically manages/treats transplant patients.
- other team members - several other team members will evaluate a patient/child before transplantation and provide follow-up care, as needed. These include, but are not limited to, the following:
- pharmacists
- anesthesiologists
- respiratory therapists
- cardiologists
- hematologists
- urologists
- nephrologists
- infectious disease specialists
- lab technicians
- psychologists