An initial evaluation usually involves an assessment at Jefferson Hospital, where members of Jefferson’s Transplant Team will
see the patient. The Team is made up of transplant surgeons, nephrologists, transplant coordinators, as well as a social worker
and financial coordinator.
If the recipient (patient who is receiving the new kidney) has a potential donor (Patient who is donating the kidney) who
is available at the same time, their evaluation can take place at the same time. Otherwise, an appointment can be made for
the donor to see the Team later.
During the exam, the recipient will have blood tests. Any potential donor will have the same tests. All blood tests undergo
extensive tissue typing to be sure that the recipient and donor are a match.
In addition, the exam will likely include:
- An overall physical checkup
- Review of current and past medications
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) - a painless test of heart muscle activity
- Chest X-ray
Recipients may be referred for additional tests (such as urine tests and studies to check for heart function) as well as checkups
with other healthcare providers such as dentists, eye doctors, or gynecologists.
The recipient may also be asked to meet with a psychologist on the Transplant Team. The purpose of a psychiatric exam is to
evaluate recipients for their coping skills in handling the stress associated with preparing for the procedure and the transplant
itself. If a living donor is involved, the donor will also be evaluated.
