Your Orthopedic Surgeon is board-certified in orthopedic surgery, including joint replacements, and is the head of your joint replacement health care team.
A team of specialized nurses and technicians work closely with your orthopedic surgeon and the anesthesiologist in the surgery suite to ensure a successful surgical outcome.
Your Orthopedic Nurse is specially trained in joint replacement care and will be your most frequent contact during your hospital stay. Your nurse will provide for your daily health care needs and help you manage your post operative pain to ensure a successful recovery.
Your Patient Care Tech (PCT) works closely with your orthopedic nurse and provides assistance with your daily activities, such as bathing and getting up to the bathroom or chair. Your CNA will also regularly take your vital signs and report them to your orthopedic nurse.
Your Physical Therapists are specifically trained in post operative joint replacement care. You will work with your Physical Therapist twice daily to regain range of motion and strength through exercise and walking with an assistive device, such as a walker. Education is also an important part of your therapy. Your Physical Therapist will provide daily instructions regarding your safety, exercise progression, activity progression, as well as use of any equipment you will need upon discharge.
Your Occupational Therapist specializes in activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, and toileting techniques using adaptive equipment which will help you function post operatively. Your Occupational Therapist will work with you daily and provide instructions and education to ensure you are able to safely perform your daily personal activities upon discharge from the hospital.
Your Case Manager will come see you early in your hospital stay to discuss discharge plans and any equipment or other needs you will have when you leave the hospital. Your case manager will arrange home care for you after you leave the hospital and will need to know who will be taking you home and caring for you. Your case manager will also address any concerns you may have about home care and what your insurance will cover.
A Social Worker is available to assist you if you have financial concerns, feel unsafe at home, or need emotional support. If you would like to see a social worker during your stay, please notify your nurse. If you would like to arrange a pre-operative visit by phone, please call the Social Services Department at 341-5299.
A variety of specialists, such as Dietitians, Lab and X-ray Technicians, Spiritual Care Representative, and Housekeeping, are also available and assist in your care. These specialists work along side your Orthopedic Team to make sure your recovery is successful.