After Surgery

HOSPITAL STAY

Your time spent in the hospital will be determined by your surgeon and care team. Please remember when you go home you will need someone to stay with you for the first 24 hours, but we encourage having someone to help you for at least 2-4 days.

PAIN

After surgery, you can expect to have some pain. The goal is to manage your pain so you are able to complete your exercises over the course of your recovery. Please discuss your pain management options with the hospital care team throughout your stay.

FALL RISK – CALL DON’T FALL

While in the hospital, you will learn how to move safely with your new total joint. Please keep in mind that you will be using a walker and will be in a new environment. Extra caution is needed to ensure you do not suffer a fall in the days immediately following surgery.

Certain medications, especially pain medications, may make you dizzy or drowsy. These side effects can make it more likely for you to fall. Be sure to tell your nurse if a medication makes you feel dizzy or drowsy so that extra caution can be taken, or medications can be adjusted to reduce your risk of falling.

PHYSICAL THERAPY

If you are staying overnight in the hospital, once you are on the orthopedic unit, you will begin a rehabilitation program to help strengthen your muscles and regain your range of motion. Within hours of your arrival to the orthopedic unit, your physical therapist and/or a nurse will help you start walking a few steps at a time. Before you are discharged from the hospital, a therapist will show you how to perform daily tasks at home after surgery.

Physical therapy and occupational therapy after your joint replacement surgery are critical parts of your recovery. The exercises will help you regain range of motion and strength so you can get back to doing the things you love. In addition to using your prescribed medications, use of ice and elevation after your exercises will help you reach your rehab goals.

DISCHARGE GOALS

The following goals are to be met with the guidance and supervision of a therapist or nurse: 1. Get out of bed by yourself. 2. Walk 100 feet with the use of a walker or crutches. 3. Walk to the bathroom with assistance. 4. Climb and descend stairs (if necessary). 5. Bathe and dress yourself with minimal help. 6. Control any pain with oral medication. 7. Recite and use your hip precautions (total hips only). 8. Make arrangements to return home.