Prior to placement on the transplant waiting list, patients are interviewed for any psychological issues and to determine if a good support system is in place. Ideally, a potential candidate should have good mental strength as well as be physically as fit as they can be for a person who cannot do well independently. By the time a person is evaluated as a potential transplant candidate, it is likely a caregiver has already been in place.
If the screening is not conducted properly, some patients might not be successful. A good frame of mind is an important foundation to start on a journey towards being transplanted. A caregiver's attitude must be positive, too. If there is conflict between the patient and the caregiver, that only furthers the stress already present from needing a transplant.
Caregivers can be any person that wants to take care of the patient-maybe a loved one, a relative, or friend. The caregiving and support system is necessary before, during, and post-transplant.
Caregivers can be taken for granted. Unfortunately, they are called upon for anything the medically-compromised patient needs mentally, emotionally, and physically. The requirement of giving constant care can lead to fatigue. Caregivers sometimes need a respite and this should be considered with the utmost seriousness. Not only must a caregiver communicate a need for a break, but others around the patient as well as the patient should watch for signs, including depression, that indicate a break is needed.
My daughter took care of me for almost three years, pre- and post-transplant. It eventually came time for her to move on with her life and off to another state she went to seek her fame and fortune. As a mother who valued her care, I only wished her much happiness and success. This is to say that sometimes we have to let our caregivers move on. It should not be viewed as a negative thing. If it is, that could mean that the patient has become too dependent on their caregiver. A good caregiver helps a chronically ill patient do as much for themselves as possible giving guidance, care, and support. A great caregiver offers encouragement.
Not every person with the best of intentions turns out to be a good match for serving as a caregiver. Sometimes, people are thrown into the role. Sometimes, they become resentful. Others view it as a calling. They are inclined to be warm, helpful, and at- the-ready for those they are helping.
While there are some transplant centers that do a great deal to prepare caregivers, there remains a deficiency in training as well as lack of support for them. An ideal training program for caregivers would include help on how to extend moral support. Hospitals and clinics should have an outreach program to help caregivers with their needs, too.