Caring for Someone After a Liver Transplant

A liver transplant can be a life-changing procedure for someone with severe liver disease. It is often life-saving for those with advanced nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). As a caregiver, understanding what the surgery involves and how to best care for your loved one after the transplant is crucial.¹

What is liver transplant surgery?

A liver transplant involves replacing a diseased liver with a healthy one from a donor. The liver can come from either a deceased donor or a living donor. The person who receives the liver is called the liver recipient. Liver transplants save countless lives each year.^1,2

A transplant is a complex surgery. It is typically reserved for people with end-stage liver disease or liver cancer. The surgery can last 6 to 12 hours depending on the person. During the surgery, the surgeon removes the damaged liver and implants the donor liver.^1,2

What to expect after a liver transplant

After surgery, the liver recipient is closely monitored in the intensive care unit (ICU) to make sure the new liver is functioning properly. ICU staff will manage any potential complications.¹

Most liver recipients spend about 2 weeks recovering in the hospital after transplant surgery. During this time, medical staff will monitor their vital signs and liver function, and watch for any signs of organ rejection or infection.¹

The first few weeks after going home from the hospital are critical. The recipient will need regular checkups to make sure everything is going smoothly. Rehabilitation will also begin.^1-3

It is common for recipients to feel tired and weak the first couple of weeks after surgery. They also may have some pain at the incision site.^1-3

How to care for someone with a liver transplant

After a liver transplant, the recipient will need 24/7 care for about 6 weeks. As a caregiver, your role is to help ensure your loved one’s recovery and well-being. Here are some key aspects of care.^1,4,5

Managing medicines

Liver recipients will need to take anti-rejection drugs to prevent organ rejection. These must be taken exactly as prescribed. Create a medicine schedule and set reminders so that no doses are missed.¹

Monitor for complications

Keep a close eye on your loved one for any complications. Watch for signs of infection, including:¹

• Fever
• Redness at the incision site
• Unusual discharge

Also watch for signs of liver rejection, such as:¹

• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Dark urine
• Fatigue that does not go away
• Stomach pain

Contact your loved one’s healthcare team immediately if you spot any of these symptoms.

Follow-up appointments

You may be responsible for transporting your loved one to and from their doctor’s appointments. These visits are crucial for monitoring their liver function and overall health. Keep a log of medical appointments, test results, and any symptoms or concerns. Over time, these appointments will occur less often.^1,3,5

Healthy diet and lifestyle

You will need to prepare a healthy diet for your loved one as they are recovering. Make sure they are eating a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Avoid foods that are high in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats. If you need help, meet with a dietitian who can assist with meal planning.¹

Encourage your loved one to engage in other healthy behaviors, too, like:¹

• Staying hydrated
• Not drinking alcohol or smoking
• Getting up and moving around, as they are able

Physical support

For some time, your loved one will not be able to lift any heavy objects and may need help walking, bathing, dressing, and going to the bathroom.¹

Preventing illness and infection

1,5

• Regularly wash hands with soap and water.
• Help your loved one bathe regularly.
• Keep your home clean, especially bathrooms and kitchens.
• Regularly disinfect high-touch areas like doorknobs, light switches, and remote controls.
• Avoid seeing anyone who is sick. And encourage visitors to wear masks.
• Make sure your loved one stays up to date on all vaccine requirements.

This is a lot of responsibility to manage in addition to caring for your loved one. Do as much as you can. And do not be afraid to ask for help.⁴

Emotional support

Recovery from a liver transplant can be emotionally hard. Be there to listen to your loved one and offer support. But also respect their need for alone time. Encourage them to join a support group or talk with a counselor if they need to. That goes for caregivers as well!^2-5

Tips for caregivers

Caring for someone after a liver transplant can be overwhelming and nerve-racking. These tips can help you navigate the experience:^1,4,5

• Learn as much as you can about liver transplants, including the recovery process and potential complications.
• Stay organized. Keep a detailed record of medicines, appointments, and any changes in your loved one’s condition. Use a planner, notebook, or digital app to track everything.
• Communicate with the transplant team. Keep the lines of communication with your loved one’s transplant team open. Do not hesitate to ask questions or express your concerns.
• Lean on your support network. Connect with other caregivers, support groups, and friends. Share your experiences and advice. This will go a long way in feeling less alone.
• Have regular check-ins with your loved one. You may feel like you have to be by their side all the time. But that is often impossible and can lead to burnout. Check in with them about what support they need and what things they want to take care of on their own. Open communication is key.
• Take care of yourself. Caregiving is demanding – physically, mentally, and emotionally. Make time to rest and recharge. Rely on friends, family members, or professional caregivers for support.

Caregivers are the key to transplant success. Caring for someone after a liver transplant requires patience, organization, and compassion. Follow these guidelines and tips so you can help your loved one navigate their recovery and return to a healthier life.^2,3,5