Our Approach
A team effort to joint replacement surgery and rehabilitationHow is it different?
- The clinical team of nurses and therapists received advanced training in care and rehabilitation of joint surgery patients.
- The orthopedic surgeons use the latest evidence-based joint replacement procedures.
- Patients experience pre -and post-operative educational programs in a group setting to foster support and encouragement.
- Family members are trained to be your personal coach to help you during the rehabilitation process and continue to assist you at home.
- Our goal is to discharge you in three days or less directly home rather than to an inpatient rehabilitation facility whenever possible.
Our program is based on the best, evidence-based practices. Evidence shows that complications are reduced and outcomes maximized when a patient is well educated about the procedure and what to expect, starts physical therapy the same day as the surgery, when family members are involved, and when patients continue their recuperation at home and with outpatient therapy.
Coaching
Our patients are encouraged to involve a friend or family member as their joint replacement “coach.” Coaches begin training in a pre-op group class and continue through the entire process in the hospital and at home, providing support and encouragement as patients achieve goals and rapid recovery.Pre-Op Education
A pre-operative class is held regularly for patients scheduled for joint replacement surgery. Our joint care coordinator will schedule this class for you 2-3 weeks prior to your surgery. The class will include a tour of the Center for Joint Care Unit and Group Activity Room and a review of your pre-operative exercises. Members of the Joint Care team will be there to answer questions as well. We strongly suggest your coach participate in the pre-op class. An explanation of their role is part of the class.
Group Emphasis & Reunion
Both patients and coaches participate in group therapy, meals and other activities promoting an atmosphere of support and encouragement. Another benefit of this group activity is that you get to wear comfortable clothes, not a hospital gown.
A couple of months after your surgery, you will be invited to a reunion luncheon with your coach and other patients and their coaches. At this luncheon, you can share your experience with the staff and physicians.
