If a heart becomes available and you are not in the hospital, we will call you at home. If your beeper alarms more than three times in a row, you should call the Cleveland Clinic operator at 800.223.2273 or 216.444.2200 and ask for the heart transplant coordinator on call.
The operator will page the appropriate person while you remain on the line. In some cases, the coordinator may arrange for transportation to the Cleveland Clinic, or tell you to standby for further instructions. Be sure to notify the Transplant Coordinator if your phone or beeper number changes, or if you will be at another location.
Once you are called, do not eat or drink anything and keep your telephone line open.
When you get the call from your Transplant Coordinator that a donor heart has been located, you will need to come to the Cleveland Clinic as soon as possible.
When you are told to come to the hospital, remember:
- Do not eat or drink anything.
- Bring all your prescription medications.
- Bring a list of your medications and drug allergies.
- Leave watches, money and other valuables at home or with the person who accompanies you.
- Wear comfortable, easy-to-fold clothing. You will be given a gown to wear when you are admitted to the hospital. Your clothing will be given to the family member or friend who accompanies you.
- Women should not wear make-up or nail polish.
Go directly to the intensive care unit for hospital admission. You will be met in the Cardiothoracic Intensive Care Unit (CTICU) by the nursing staff. If you are waiting for transplant in the hospital, the coordinator may come to your hospital room and then, you will be transferred to the CTICU.