Transplant recipients: walking for health

Progress in Transplantation, Mar 2005 by Cupples, Sandra A, Cooke, Richard H

You will be more inclined to walk if you make it a pleasant experience. Invite a family member or friend to join you. Keep track of your progress. Consider buying a pedometer that will count your steps, distance, and calories spent. If you are walking in a mall, consider walking to music or listening to a book on tape while you walk. If you are walking outdoors, be careful about listening to tapes while walking.... You don't want to be a pedestrian accident waiting to happen!

Safety

Keep safety in mind as you walk. If you are walking in the early morning, evening, or at night, be sure to wear reflective devices such as vests or bands and carry a flashlight. Consider taking your cell phone with you. Be aware of your surroundings at all times. If you are walking at a time when mosquitoes are out, be sure to protect yourself against mosquito bites (and possible West Nile virus infection). Wear long-sleeve clothing and long pants. Ask your transplant team about applying an insect repellent that contains DEET. Keep the following warning symptoms in mind. If they occur, immediately stop walking and call for assistance.

Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke

Outdoor temperatures over 70� and humidity over 70% can interfere with your body's cooling process. When you exercise in these conditions, you put yourself at risk for dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. If you have any of the following symptoms, immediately stop exercising, cool down by dousing yourself with cold water, and seek medical attention (Table 1).1

Heart Attack

Certain types of transplant recipients may be at higher risk for heart attacks because of their antirejection medications and other medical problems such as high blood pressure or diabetes. While it is important to exercise, you must also be aware of the warning signs of a heart attack (Table 2).1

If you have any of the above symptoms while walking, you must get medical attention immediately (within 5 minutes). Have someone dial 9-1-1 or call the emergency medical services in your area. If you can't access the emergency medical services, have someone drive you to the nearest hospital.

Reference

1. American Heart Association. Available at: http://www.amencanheart.org. Accessed April 14, 2004.

Sandra A. Cupples, RN, DNSc

Richard H. Cooke, MD