Medication

The pharmacist explains why some drugs used after a renal transplant can increase the risk of heart disease and highlights to patients the importance of attending review clinics so their doses of medication can be reviewed regularly. Drug therapy to reduce cardiac risk is also discussed, as is the importance of taking medication. Homeopathic remedies are also discussed here and patients are reminded always to check with the renal team first before taking anything new.

Diet

Traditional healthy-eating guidelines discussed are based on the recommendations from the cardiac and thoracic interest group, which has concentrated on the importance of increasing intake of fruit, vegetables and omega-3 oils and on reducing saturated fat and salt intake. Advice is also given on weight control. The importance of an adequate intake of folic acid, vitamins B6, vitamin B12, adequate calcium and phosphate are also discussed.

Exercise

The physiotherapist discusses the benefits of exercise for heart health and advises on suitable sporting activities for transplant patients.

Auditing the sessions

Patient feedback from the Sessions so far has been very encouraging. Of those who have attended, 100% would recommend attending the sessions to other transplant patients.

We have also audited the patient’s knowledge before and after teaching.

Only 20% of patients could remember someone discussing the importance of looking after their heart before they attended the Session.

Specific knowledge questions were asked on antioxidants, fats and omega-3 oils.

		When the same questions were asked after teaching, 100% of patients got all the questions right: the percentage of patients getting the answers correct before teaching ranged from 60 to 85%.
		After attending the Session, 58% of the patients planned to make lifestyle changes. However, actual behaviour change is very difficult to establish. We have no secret cameras so we have to take their word for that!

The future

Initial data suggests that the Sessions have been a success. To keep transplant patients up to date we plan to invite all patients to an Annual Session.