How to be better prepared for successful joint replacement surgery…
A successful joint replacement depends on preparation before surgery and good habits afterward. In this article, we’ll cover key strategies for getting your home ready so your recovery goes as smoothly as possible.
Home Environment Preparation
Help the individual set up their homes before surgery so they can move efficiently, perform activities of daily living (ADLs) safely, and stay on track with rehabilitation. Share the following recommendations with them.
Commonly Used Areas
Clear a path to the bathroom, kitchen, and bedroom. Remove obstacles and clutter, and help patients organize their space where possible. A tidy home supports safety and makes it easier to complete the home exercise program (HEP).
Sitting
Avoid chairs that place the hips below knee level. Cushions, back support, wedges, pillows, or rolled towels can help patients find comfortable resting positions, especially for longer periods of sitting. Advise against rolling chairs, which are unstable and increase injury risk.
Bathroom
A physical therapist (PT) or occupational therapist (OT) can help address bathroom needs. PTs should also guide patients on durable medical equipment (DME) such as a raised toilet seat, shower chair, and grab bars. Recommend whatever equipment you think will make ADLs safer.
Children and Pets
Take care around small children and pets to avoid accidental contact with the surgical side. Arrange the home so pets and children are contained, or so the patient can safely reach household items and complete ADLs.
Fall Risk and Access to Items
Minimize bending and reaching, keep frequently used items within easy reach, and avoid wet or unstable surfaces. Consider recommending that patients keep a cell phone with them at all times.
Stairs
Patients will need help with stairs and other elevated surfaces. Reinforce safe technique during early transfers, using assistive devices, helpers, and railings to protect the surgical site.
Laundry and Cleaning
Review the physical demands of laundry and cleaning, and help patients arrange assistance or find safe ways to complete these tasks.
Arrange for someone to collect the mail, or place mail and newspaper delivery on hold.
Meals
Arrange help with meals and perishable foods such as milk, salad, fruits, and vegetables. Freeze prepared dinners before surgery, and stock up on non-perishables (boxed, canned, and frozen) to make meal preparation easier afterward.
Driving
Arrange for someone to drive to follow-up appointments. Patients should not drive until the surgeon says it’s okay, and never while taking narcotic pain medication. They also need to have regained the range of motion, strength, and reaction time required to drive safely.
When to Contact the Surgeon
Most patients do very well after discharge. Still, patients should call the surgeon’s office if any of the following occur:
- Pain at the surgical site is increasing
- Redness, warmth, swelling, or tenderness is new or increasing
- Drainage from the incision is new or increasing
- Temperature is above 100.8°F for more than 24 hours
- After total knee replacement, knee flexion has decreased or has not improved since discharge
Bowel Function
It may take several days to have a bowel movement, since anesthesia and pain medication often cause constipation. Drink plenty of fluids and eat whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. The surgeon may prescribe a stool softener or laxative to help bowel function return to normal.
Please don’t hesitate to call the surgeon’s office with any questions or concerns.
