CCTN Patient Education and Psychosocial Care in Transplantation

Question 1

Which topic is most critical to include in discharge education for a new kidney transplant recipient?

Accepted Answer

Signs and symptoms of rejection and when to seek immediate care

Answer

How to apply for disability benefits

Answer

Exercise guidelines for returning to sports

Answer

Dietary restrictions for cholesterol management

Question 2

How should a transplant nurse counsel a patient about sun exposure after transplantation?

Accepted Answer

Transplant recipients have significantly increased risk of skin cancer and must use high SPF sunscreen and protective clothing daily

Answer

Sun exposure is encouraged to increase vitamin D production

Answer

Only melanoma risk is increased — other skin exposures are safe

Answer

Sun protection is only needed in the first year post-transplant

Question 3

A transplant recipient asks if they can get a flu shot. What is the most accurate nursing response?

Accepted Answer

Inactivated influenza vaccines are recommended annually; live vaccines are contraindicated

Answer

All vaccines are contraindicated after transplantation

Answer

Live attenuated vaccines are preferred for better immunity

Answer

Vaccines are unnecessary because immunosuppression prevents flu

Question 4

What is the most common reason for graft loss in long-term kidney transplant recipients related to patient behavior?

Accepted Answer

Non-adherence to immunosuppressive medications

Answer

Excessive exercise damaging the graft

Answer

Dietary non-compliance causing metabolic syndrome

Answer

Failure to attend annual follow-up appointments

Question 5

A transplant patient says they cannot afford their medications. What is the most appropriate nursing action?

Accepted Answer

Connect the patient with social work, patient assistance programs, and transplant coordinators to address financial barriers

Answer

Advise the patient to skip non-critical medications to save money

Answer

Document the concern and continue without intervention

Answer

Advise the patient to use half doses to stretch their supply

Question 6

How long after transplantation should female recipients wait before attempting pregnancy?

Accepted Answer

At least 1–2 years, when graft function is stable and immunosuppression is minimized

Answer

6 months

Answer

12 months

Answer

Pregnancy is permanently contraindicated after transplant