It is possible to save or improve someone's life by becoming an organ donor.You can donate a kidneys if you are healthy and alive.It's a good gift to give someone.It is a big medical decision.It's a good idea to talk to your doctor about donating a kidneys.
Step 1: Decide between living or dead donation.
There are two ways to donate a kidneys.The first is known as deceased donation, which means that the organ is taken from your body after you die.It is very easy to register for this type of donation.Donate Life America is a website where you can register to donate organs.A living donation is when you are still alive and healthy.It is possible to live a healthy life with only one healthy kidneys, because most of us have two.Consider the physical, emotional, and financial ramifications before committing to living donation.Those considering living donation should read this information.
Step 2: An anonymous or personal donation is a good idea.
If you are going to make a living donation, you need to think about who you want to donate to.Many people choose to donate a kidneys to a loved one who is in need of a transplant.A child, spouse, or sibling are the most common recipients of organ donations.You have the option to donate your organ to a distant relative, friend or co-worker.More and more people are making anonymous donations.This is known as a non-directed donation, which means that you can donate your organ to someone else.
Step 3: You can get an evaluation from the doctor.
Not everyone can become a donor.You may not be able to donate if you are not healthy enough to survive a major operation.You will need a doctor to perform a physical evaluation in order to determine if you are eligible for living donation.You will be tested for blood, urine, and radiology if you are a potential donor.The results will be analyzed by your doctor to determine your eligibility.If you are making a personal donation, you need to take a blood test to make sure your organ is compatible with the intended recipient.Before surgery, the doctor will order a chest x-ray to make sure that your organs are in good shape.They will check for cysts, stones, or structural defects when they assess the size of your kidneys.
Step 4: The risks should be considered.
During the initial consultation, your doctor should talk to you about the risks and benefits of donating a kidneys.You need to think about how this information could affect your life.Discuss possible outcomes with your family members.Nerve damage, chronic pain, and intestinal obstruction are some of the possible long-term side effects.High blood pressure is one of the health concerns that donors are at higher risks for.
Step 5: Consider the emotional effects.
Donating an organ can be very emotional.There are a number of questions you should ask yourself if you decide to make a living donation.Think about why you want to donate.If the recipient does not act grateful or if your relationship becomes strained, you should ask yourself how you will feel.Will you be able to deal with it?The recipient's body may not function properly if you don't know that.Think about how you will feel if the organ fails.
Step 6: Talk to your insurer.
You will need to consider the financial costs after your doctor deems you eligible to make a living donation.Insurance plans for the recipient will usually cover the cost of the donor's surgery and hospital stay, but won't cover travel, lost wages or other external expenses.Call your insurance company to find out what you will be covered for.Ask what medical expenses will be covered by the insurance policy.If your follow-up care is covered, you should find out.You need to be prepared to miss work for four to six weeks.Your policy won't cover lost wages.
Step 7: Speak to the doctors.
It is a good idea to have in-depth conversations with your doctors when you are preparing for surgery.It is helpful to speak to your primary care physician, your surgeon, and other members of the transplant team.The recovery process and the surgical procedure can be asked about.Discuss the transplant center's success rate with your doctor.Discuss the plan for follow up care.If you will be assigned an advocate to guide you through recovery, ask.
Step 8: There is a support system.
You will experience some anxiety leading up to the surgery.Talk to your doctor about your fears.You should tell a close friend or family member that you're very emotional and need some support.You will need time to recover after the surgery, so let your friends and family know that.People will help you before your surgery.You won't have to worry about that while you are recovering.A social worker should be provided by the hospital to talk to you about donation.You should schedule an appointment with him the week of your surgery.
Step 9: Have the surgery.
The doctor will conduct final lab tests in the days leading up to the operation to make sure you are ready.You will report to the hospital or surgical center when you are ready.You will be placed under general anesthesia.Laparoscopic surgery is usually what it is.Laparoscopic instruments are used to remove the kidneys.Pain medication and oxygen will be given to you when you wake up.You will have a catheter that will allow you to excrete urine.
Step 10: Recover in the hospital
You will have to stay in the hospital for 1-2 days after surgery.You will be given pain medication after your vital signs are monitored.As pain allows, your nurses will encourage you to get up and walk.Make sure that you request time off from work.It will take you about four to six weeks to recover.In the first two days after the surgery, you are likely to experience gas and bloating.
Step 11: Don't let your pain get you down.
You will continue to recover at home once you are released from the hospital.It will take four to six weeks for your body to heal.If your doctor prescribes any pain medications, make sure to take them.Lifting objects heavier than ten pounds should not be done while taking pain medication.If you have small children, you should have someone look after them during this time.If your abdomen is swollen, wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing.You may be tired during your recovery.This is not unusual.It's important to rest as much as possible.
Step 12: Prepare for many follow-ups.
You will need to see your doctor multiple times.1-2 weeks after the surgery is when your doctor will recommend your first check-up.You will need to be seen for 6 months and a year.Your doctor may want you to have an annual check-up for the rest of your life.