Knowing questions to ask the doctor before joint replacement surgery can help you get all the information you need.
You’ve just learned that Dad will need knee replacement surgery. You’ve heard a little bit about what this could involve from other family members, but are you prepared to help him get ready for the surgery and heal safely and fully afterwards?
Millions of people have joint replacement surgery each year. Fortunately, even though it can be frightening to face, the resulting relief from pain and typically quick recovery will soon have your loved one back on their feet.
Questions to Ask the Doctor When Preparing for Joint Replacement Surgery
It can feel overwhelming to try to absorb all the information the doctor will provide ahead of the procedure. The best way to make certain you have the information you need is by making a list of questions you want the doctor to answer. Even this task can feel stressful, however, but never fear – our care team has developed a list of frequently asked questions for you!
Copy any relevant questions to ask the doctor from the list below, and then add in any others you may have:
- How long is the typical hospital stay?
- What sort of medical equipment or supplies will be of help?
- How long will the surgery last?
- Is it useful to begin practicing walking with a cane or walker before the procedure?
- What results can be expected for someone my parent’s age and with their specific health conditions?
- What risks are involved with joint replacement surgery?
- How much pain should be expected after the surgery, and what forms of pain relief are available?
- What exercises can be implemented now to strengthen muscles?
- What specific instructions are there for the day of the surgery?
- Will it be necessary to go to a rehab facility for recovery, or can my loved one recover at home with help?
- Is it recommended that my loved one lose weight or make some other lifestyle changes?
- When can regular activities be resumed?
- What type of anesthesia is usually used, and are there options available?
- How soon will my loved one have the ability to shower?
- Are there any modifications we should make now to the home for a safer recovery?
- Are there any medications that should be started or stopped prior to the procedure?
Recovering After Joint Replacement Surgery
Making a strategy now for a loved one’s recovery can make the transition home from the hospital smoother and easier. At Absolute Companion Care, we’re here to help with post-surgical in-home care services that relieve some of the stress surrounding a hospitalization. For example, we can:
- Take care of light housekeeping and laundry
- Pick up groceries and prescriptions and run any other errands needed
- Provide medication reminders so meds are taken just as prescribed
- Monitor for changes in condition or medication side effects and report them immediately
- Provide transportation and accompaniment to and from the hospital
- Help with transfers and mobility, showers/baths, and other personal care needs to lower the risk of a fall
- Prepare nutritious meals
- Offer companionship for conversations and enjoyable pastimes during recovery
- Encourage participation in physician-approved exercises and provide transportation to PT appointments
- And more
You can reach us any time online or at 410-357-9640 to learn more about how we can ease a surgical procedure, before, during, and after, for someone you love. Our services are available throughout Hunt Valley, Monkton, Timonium, and the surrounding areas. Visit our Service Area page to see if we are available to help in your area.