Preparing for joint replacement surgery can be a daunting task, but it is an important step in ensuring a successful outcome. Here are some tips to help you get ready:
1. Learn About the Procedure: Talk to your doctor and learn what to expect before, during, and after surgery. Your questions may include: What is the process for being admitted to the hospital? What type of anesthesia will I receive? What type of implant or prosthesis will be used? How long will I stay in the hospital? How long will my recovery take? How will my pain be managed after surgery?
In addition, do not hesitate to voice concerns or speak up if you do not understand something about your treatment. Total Joint Replacement: Questions Patients Should Ask Their Surgeon can help guide you in your discussions with your doctor.
2. Assemble Your Personal and Medical Information: During the weeks before your surgery, many people will ask about your insurance coverage, medical history, and legal arrangements. When you have a quiet moment, take a few minutes to put together a careful list of your personal and medical information.
This will help speed the process and ensure that you provide your healthcare team with all the critical information needed for a successful surgery. Be sure that your list includes the following:
- The name of a family member or friend who will come with you to your doctor's appointments, drive you to and from the hospital on the day of your surgery, and help you to remember healthcare instructions.
- Names, addresses, and phone numbers for all the doctors you currently see and your reasons for seeing them.
- Any medical conditions or health problems you have, such as diabetes, asthma, anemia, or high blood pressure.
- Any previous operations you have undergone, even those not related to your current problem.
- Any medications you take on a regular basis — along with their dosages (how much of the medication you take; for instance, 50mg pills or 2 ounces of liquid) and frequency (how often you take the medication; for instance, 2 times a day, or with meals).
3. Stay Active: Exercise can help speed up your recovery after surgery. If you practice exercises recommended by your doctor before surgery, it will be easier to do them after surgery.
4. Watch Your Alcohol Intake: Do not have any alcohol for at least 48 hours before surgery.
5. Discuss Other Types of Controlled Substances: Tell your doctor about any narcotics or other drug use.
6. Pre-admission Tests: Several weeks before surgery, your primary care doctor will check your general health. If you have had any problems with anesthesia in the past, be sure to tell your doctor. Your doctor may also require blood tests, a cardiogram, and x-rays.
7. Plan for Your Recovery: Joint replacement is major surgery, and your recovery will take several weeks. If you live alone or have special needs, consider having a friend or family member stay with you for several days after surgery. You may also want to make arrangements for transportation to follow-up appointments and physical therapy sessions.
8. Prepare Your Home: Before leaving for the hospital, prepare your home so that it is safe and comfortable when you return. Some things to consider include:
- Clearing clutter from walkways
- Removing loose rugs
- Installing grab bars in the bathroom
- Placing frequently used items within easy reach
- Arranging for someone to help with household chores.
9. Arrange for Help: After surgery, you may need help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, cooking, and cleaning. Consider arranging for a home health aide or asking friends and family members for assistance.
10. Follow Your Doctor's Instructions: After surgery, it is important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully. This may include taking medications as prescribed, attending physical therapy sessions as recommended by your doctor or therapist, and avoiding certain activities until you have fully recovered.
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