Hi, @ryanman0, I wasn’t aware that living in a hospital room with a transplant patient for that length of time was an option. Most major hospitals, that I know of, have the patient staying in the room and the caregiver living nearby, returning for frequent daily visits until the patient is well enough to leave for temporary housing. The hospital may limit visitation to one designated person, the caregiver.

From my experience at Mayo for my bone marrow transplant, it was a rather unique situation where we were actually outpatients. Once we receive the transplant we then return to our ‘home away from home’ whether it’s a suite at a hotel like my husband and I used, or Gift of Life Transplant house, a rental home, etc. We have to remain near the campus for 100 days.

Staying in a hospital room with the patient is really unusual from my experience. As a caregiver you don’t to need to be there every minute. The role of the caregiver begins after the patient is released. While in the hospital all the care is given by the transplant staff.
For what it’s worth in my mind, it makes more sense to find yourself a room in a hotel with a kitchenette so that you have a place to go, shower, rest…

In the hospital, keeping the room a sterile environment is crucial and there are protocols for safety of the patient. You will have to wear a mask 24/7 in the room and anywhere in the hospital. There can be no hugging or close contact, no fresh flowers, and no outside visitors. You can’t use the bathroom facilities in the room. You and your dad will most likely be having educational classes before transplant for food and living safety guides.

May I ask where your father is having his transplant? If you wish to stay in his room with him, then I’d suggest speaking with the transplant coordinator or the transplant social worker because they will be able to guide you through the logistics of staying in a room full time.

I’m here to assist you in any way I can but this is a new proposition for me as I’ve never heard of any clinic offering this option for a caregiver. Maybe some other members have experienced this and we can wait for their reply.

I’m happy to help you and your dad with whatever questions you might have regarding the actual transplant and what to expect. What led your father to needing a transplant?