Haematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation: A Guide for Patients and Caregivers

A haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) can be a challenging journey for children and their families. This guide by KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH), a hospital of the SingHealth Group, provides practical information to help parents and caregivers understand the transplant process, prepare for hospital admission and support your child throughout treatment and recovery.

It covers key aspects of your child’s transplant journey, including:

Understanding HSCT: An introduction to stem cell transplantation and the different types of transplant.

Preparing for transplantation: Pre-transplant investigations and procedures, family discussions and caregiver responsibilities, and what to bring to the hospital.

Admission and hospital stay: What to expect during the hospital stay, conditioning and infection control, and details of the transplantation process.

Managing side effects and complications: Information on common side effects and potential complications.

Diet and nutritional care: Dietary needs, food safety, supplements and feeding support.

Emotional and family support: Coping with transplantation and isolation, supporting your child and siblings, and preparing for life after transplantation.

Going home and follow-up care: Discharge preparations, caregiver education, when to seek medical help.

Patient and caregiver stories: Experiences shared by families who have undergone HSCT.