Our Summary

This article breaks down a guide recently published by the National Association of Orthopaedic Nurses (NAON) about best practices for total hip replacement surgery. The guide was put together using a careful review of existing research and provides recommendations for how nurses can best care for patients at all stages of their treatment. The people who wrote this guide are expert nurses who work in specialized clinical settings. The guide aims to boost the knowledge of healthcare professionals and improve the way patients are cared for, leading to better results for patients.

FAQs

  1. What is the purpose of the guide published by the National Association of Orthopaedic Nurses (NAON)?
  2. How was the guide for total hip replacement surgery developed?
  3. How does the NAON’s guide aim to improve patient care in total hip replacement surgeries?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about hip replacement is to follow the post-operative rehabilitation plan provided by your healthcare team. This may include physical therapy exercises, restrictions on certain activities, and guidelines for pain management. Following this plan closely can help ensure a successful recovery and optimal long-term outcomes. It is important to communicate any concerns or difficulties you may have with your healthcare team so they can provide appropriate support and adjustments to your treatment plan.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for hip replacement surgery include those with severe hip pain and limited mobility due to conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, avascular necrosis, hip fractures, or other hip conditions that have not responded to conservative treatments. These patients may have difficulty walking, performing daily activities, or have significant pain that affects their quality of life.

Patients who have tried other treatments such as physical therapy, medications, or injections without success may be candidates for hip replacement surgery. Additionally, patients who are in good overall health and do not have uncontrolled medical conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, or obesity may be considered for hip replacement surgery.

It is important for healthcare providers to carefully assess each patient’s individual situation and determine if hip replacement surgery is the best option for them. Patients should be informed of the risks and benefits of the procedure and be involved in the decision-making process. Overall, hip replacement surgery can significantly improve quality of life for patients who are suffering from severe hip pain and limited mobility.

Timeline

Before hip replacement surgery:

  • Consultation with a surgeon to discuss the need for hip replacement and determine if the patient is a suitable candidate.
  • Pre-operative assessments, including physical exams, blood tests, and imaging scans.
  • Education on the procedure, recovery process, and potential risks and complications.
  • Preparing the home environment for post-surgery recovery.

After hip replacement surgery:

  • Immediate post-operative care in the hospital, including pain management, monitoring for complications, and physical therapy.
  • Transition to a rehabilitation facility or home with outpatient physical therapy.
  • Gradual increase in mobility and activity level as the hip heals.
  • Follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor progress and address any concerns.
  • Long-term management of the hip replacement, including regular exercise, weight management, and lifestyle modifications to ensure the longevity of the implant.

Overall, the guide emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to care, involving nurses, surgeons, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals to support the patient throughout the entire hip replacement journey. By following best practices outlined in the guide, healthcare providers can help patients achieve successful outcomes and improve their quality of life after hip replacement surgery.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with hip replacement surgery?
  2. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery process expected to take?
  4. What kind of physical therapy or rehabilitation will be necessary after the surgery?
  5. Will I need assistive devices, such as a walker or cane, after the surgery?
  6. How long can I expect the hip replacement to last?
  7. What restrictions or limitations will I have after the surgery?
  8. What signs or symptoms should I watch out for that may indicate a complication?
  9. How soon can I return to work or normal activities after the surgery?
  10. Will I need any follow-up appointments or monitoring after the surgery?

Reference

Authors: Gabbert T, Filson R, Bodden J, Coppola C. Journal: Orthop Nurs. 2019 Jan/Feb;38(1):4-5. doi: 10.1097/NOR.0000000000000520. PMID: 30676568