The effects of pre-operative orientation on outcomes for joint replacement surgery patients

Abstract

<p>The Pre-operative Joint Replacement Orientation class is designed to prepare patients for the complete experience of hip and knee replacement surgery. A collaborative PowerPoint presentation along with hands-on training provides patients the information necessary to transition smoothly through the joint replacement process from the pre-operative visit to discharge disposition. Although all patients are encouraged to attend the class prior to surgery, some choose not to attend. Through a retrospective data collection process, these authors assessed the effect of attending pre-operative orientation on patient outcomes related to length of stay, rehabilitation progress, and discharge disposition, as compared to those who did not attend. Attendance at the pre-operative orientation class appears to have positive effects on patient's rehabilitation. Patients who attended the pre-operative orientation class demonstrated better achievement of targeted rehabilitation outcomes. These results may encourage future joint replacement patients to participate in pre-operative orientation, and it may provide support for other pre-surgical programs to adopt a similar orientation process.</p>