Effective preparation for joint replacement surgery can help optimize surgical outcomes and support a smooth postoperative recovery. Preoperative measures, such as medical evaluations, medication management, nutritional planning, and home safety modifications, may reduce the risk of complications. Here are some ways to prepare for joint replacement surgery:
Get Your Body Ready for Surgery
You can prepare your body for joint replacement surgery by making sure it’s physically healthy. This might include stopping smoking cigarettes, improving your diet, and doing physician-approved exercises. These actions help your body stay in good physical shape, which may lessen the risk of complications.
At one of the pre-surgery appointments, your medical team will run tests, such as blood work, X-rays, and an EKG. These tests are done to make sure your body is ready for surgery. Your doctor may also ask about recent surgeries you’ve had and current medications, vitamins, or supplements you take.
Prepare Your Home
The recovery process after joint replacement surgery is months long. Preparing your home for your new limitations can make the recovery process safer. Having clear pathways without rugs, cords, or loose items reduces the risk of tripping. You can also prepare food in batches beforehand so you don’t have to spend time cooking. Make sure valuable and often-used items are within easy reach. If possible, also install a raised toilet seat and a handle or bench in the shower. You should also stock up on comfortable pillows, ice packs, anti-inflammatory medications, and wound care bandages, and put them in an easy-to-reach place. Reducing the amount of strained movements you have to make prevents an extended recovery.
Arrange Plans for Support
If you have someone who lives with you, talk to them about your prep plan before the surgery so they can help you during the recovery process. If you don’t have a person who lives with you, ask a friend to do these preparation tasks with you. A professional carer is another option for after-surgery assistance. Make a written plan for household duties and share it with your helper. You may also want to set reminders for medications and exercises. Keeping a small notebook or calendar nearby can help you stay on track.
Pack for the Surgery Day
On the day of the surgery, you’ll need to arrange transport to and from the hospital. You’ll also need to bring medical information such as an insurance card, current medications, previous surgeries, allergies, and other surgery-relevant information. Remember to wear comfortable clothes and bring any medical devices you need, like a walker or crutches. Some medical facilities will provide movement aid equipment. You may also want to bring a form of entertainment, like a book, music player, or smart device.
Get Ready for Joint Replacement
Your surgeon will talk to you about your medical needs during the recovery process, including acceptable exercises, a healthy diet, medication management, and the recovery timeline. Recovery can take anywhere from six months to a year to fully complete, but the new joint should last 15 to 20 years. Now is the time to talk to the surgeon about the entire joint replacement process, from before the operation to a year afterward. Preparing for joint replacement surgery may set you up for a more successful recovery.
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