Notebook given to heart transplant recipients

A6 blue hardbacked notebook given to heart transplant receipents at Papworth Hospital NHS Foundation Trust to record their daily doses of medication post transplant, owned by a person who had a heart transplant charting their medication from the days prior to their transplant and post-operation

Known as the blue book at Papworth Hospital, heart transplant recipients are given a blank book in the days prior to their transplant. They fill out the book with their daily medication to get used to recording their doses as they must take medication for the rest of their life. This recording also assures medical staff that in the days, weeks, months and years after their transplant they will continue to take their medications precisely and as directed.

Each person has different medication needs at different points of their post-operation journey. All heart transplant recipients are prescribed immunosuppressants. These are medicines which prevent recipients' bodies rejecting a donor heart. Immunosuppressants can have significant side effects including increased risk of injections, weakened bones (osteoporosis), high blood pressure and diabetes. To help with these side effects, heart transplant recipients receive a range of medicines. They are carefully monitored after their operation and have regular check-ups to ensure how well their heart is working. Cardiac rehabilitation including exercise, advice, and support are also available.

Known as Royal Papworth Hospital NHS Foundation Trust since 2018, after being given the designation by Queen Elizabeth II, Papworth Hospital is one of six centres in the United Kingdom where heart transplants are carried out.