Postoperative nursing priority in renal transplantation?

• A. Monitor for signs of rejection and infection, ensure immunosuppressant adherence, monitor renal function labs, and educate on infection prevention
• B. Increase fluid intake to overhydrate kidneys
• C. Immediately stop immunosuppressants if infection is suspected
• D. Schedule daily dialysis sessions to complement transplant

Answer: (B)

After renal transplantation, protecting the new kidney’s function hinges on preserving good graft perfusion. Adequate hydration plays a key role here because proper intravascular volume supports renal blood flow and urine output, which are early signs the transplanted kidney is functioning well. Encouraging fluid intake helps maintain this perfusion and supports immediate graft function, reducing the risk of prerenal injury. While monitoring for rejection, watching for infection, ensuring adherence to immunosuppressants, checking renal function labs, and educating the patient on infection prevention are all essential, the action most directly tied to safeguarding the graft right after surgery is maintaining adequate hydration to support kidney perfusion. Stopping immunosuppressants at the first sign of infection increases rejection risk, and daily dialysis is not routinely required after a successful transplant.