liver transplant

Question 1

what does MELD stand for ?

Answer 1

Model for End stage Liver Disease

Question 2

why a patient need to be screened for liver transplant?

Answer 2

for qualification to receive liver

Question 3

how is MELD scored?

Answer 3

add all of these up:

1. age
2. bili level
3. sodium
4. INR
5. Cr (increase Cr= increase score)

Question 4

can alcoholics have liver transplants?

Answer 4

yes, but have to abstain from alcohol for > 6mo

Question 5

post operative care for liver transplants

Answer 5

1. monitor neurological status
2. sxs of hemorrhage
3. prevent pulmonary complications
4. sxs of rejection, infection a slight fever may be the only sign
5. monitor for renal failure

Question 6

what kind of drains may a post-op liver transplant patient have?

Answer 6

1. jackson- pratt
2. NGT for bowel rest
3. T-Tube

Question 7

what are some complications for liver transplant?

Answer 7

hemorrhage and infection

Question 8

how should we support a post op liver transplant patient?

Answer 8

1. emotional support

2. teaching essential