Learn what to ask your doctor before a joint replacement procedure.
You’ve just learned that Dad will need knee replacement surgery. You’ve heard bits and pieces of what this might involve from a friend who has been through it, but are you truly ready to help him prepare for the surgery and heal safely and fully afterwards?
Millions of people have joint replacement surgery every year. Fortunately, although it can be scary to face, the resulting relief from pain and commonly quick recovery will soon have your loved one back on their feet.
Preparing for Joint Replacement Surgery
It can feel overwhelming to attempt to absorb all of the details the doctor will provide ahead of the procedure. The simplest way to make sure you have all of the information needed is by making a list of questions to ask your doctor. Even this task can feel overwhelming, however, but don’t worry – our care team has prepared a list of frequently asked questions for you!
Copy any relevant questions from the list below, and then add in any others you may have:
- What exercises can be started now to strengthen muscles?
- Is it useful to begin practicing walking with a cane or walker before the procedure?
- What type of supplies or medical equipment will be of help?
- How long will the surgery last?
- Are there modifications that need to be made to the home for a safer recovery?
- How much pain should be expected following the surgery, and what forms of pain relief are available?
- What results should be expected for someone of my loved one’s age and with their particular health conditions?
- How soon after the surgery will my loved one be able to shower?
- What specific instructions are there for the day of the surgery?
- What type of anesthesia is usually used, and are there options available?
- Are there any medications that should be started or stopped prior to surgery?
- How long is the typical hospital stay?
- What risks are involved with joint replacement surgery?
- Will it be necessary to go to a rehab facility for recovery, or can my loved one recover at home with help?
- When can regular activities be resumed?
- Is it recommended that my loved one lose weight or make any other lifestyle changes?
Recovering After Joint Replacement Surgery
Making a plan now for a loved one’s recovery can make the transition home from the hospital smoother and easier. At Hearts at Home In-Home Care, we are here to help with post-surgical in-home care services that relieve some of the stress surrounding a hospitalization. For example, we can:
- Prepare nutritious meals
- Offer companionship for conversations and enjoyable pastimes during recovery
- Take care of light housekeeping and laundry
- Encourage participation in doctor-approved exercises and provide transportation to PT appointments
- Assist with transfers and mobility, showers/baths, and other personal care needs to lessen the risk of a fall
- Provide medication reminders so meds are taken as prescribed
- Take care of picking up groceries and prescriptions and run any other errands needed
- Provide transportation and accompaniment to and from the hospital
- Monitor for changes in condition or medication side effects and report them immediately
- And more
You can reach us any time online or at 913-440-4209 to learn more about how we can ease a surgical procedure, before, during, and after, for someone you love. Our services are available throughout Mission Hills, Leawood, Lenexa, and the surrounding areas. Visit our Service Area page to see if we are available to help in your community.