It’s true—going to class before your joint replacement surgery has benefits. And you may even have homework! At Central Florida Regional Hospital, our joint replacement patients participate in a pre-surgery education class to help prepare them for surgery and recovery. Studies have shown that these classes improve patient outcomes and help patients feel more comfortable and confident about their surgeries.
The Purpose of Pre-Surgery Education
We offer classes geared toward specific joint replacement procedures. If you’re getting a new knee, you’ll attend a class with others who are going to have the same surgery. During the pre-surgery education session, you’ll review multiple aspects of your upcoming procedure:
- An overview of the exercises that can help prepare your body for surgery
- A review of any preparations to make immediately before surgery, such as fasting
- A summary of what to expect during each day of your hospital stay
- A recap of the usual rehabilitation and recovery process
Classes are led by healthcare professionals who have special training in patient education. Your instructor will be able to answer most questions, although those related to your personal medical history are best addressed by your surgeon. You’ll go home with plenty of information to share with loved ones who may be caring for you after your joint replacement surgery.
And about That Homework …
After your pre-surgery class, you’ll have a “to-do list” to help you prepare for surgery. Completing the items on that checklist is important! There may be paperwork to finalize or a new exercise routine to work into your schedule. The more closely you follow these instructions, the more smoothly your procedure and recovery will go.
If you have questions about anything on your pre-surgery checklist, be sure to ask your surgeon for clarification. Patients benefit from pre-surgery education because it gives them clear directions about what to do to ensure a successful surgery.
For more information about joint replacement, please contact us at Central Florida Regional Hospital. We offer orthopedic surgery to patients in Seminole and West Volusia Counties. Visit us online or call Consult-a-Nurse® at 1-800-445-3392 for answers to your questions and free referrals to orthopedists near you.
Sources:
Arthritis Today
Related Posts:
The Seven Myths of Back Surgery
Partial Knee Replacement Offers More Mobile Options
Fitting Your Kids’ Backpacks
Categories: 
Tags: