Joint replacement surgery is becoming more and more common and is occurring and younger ages. It is to your advantage to think through how you can approach surgery for the best possible recovery and outcome. Start by considering these four major categories as you prepare for upcoming surgery: Overall Health, Prehab, Home Environment, and Post-Op Help.
Overall Health
Surgery of any kind can be challenging. Depending on what type of anesthesia he will be having, it can be a determining factor in Dad's recovery. Many times, the use of "general anesthesia" has a longer-term recovery period, than surgeries that use a more local form of anesthesia such as a "block" or "spinal." Even with the lesser forms of anesthesia, there is fatigue that usually always accompanies recovery, as well as increased weakness, and a reduction in baseline balance, strength, and sense of wellbeing.
If Dad's baseline strength and health are good, he will (as you might expect) have the best chance of a shorter recovery time. If he is struggling with poor mobility and overall challenged health, be realistic in your expectations for a more complicated and longer recovery. During the appointment with Dad's surgeon, ask if a consult to Physical Therapy prior to surgery would be advantageous.
Prehab
It is becoming the norm (finally!) to participate in prehabilitation, or "prehab," before joint replacement surgery. Prehab supports your healing, even before surgery occurs, by identifying your joint and muscular limitations and targeting a customized exercise plan. It's possible that by initiating a prehab program before surgery, you can dramatically improve your recovery after surgery.
Many insurance plans cover this. Prehab is so beneficial and advisable because you will:
Home Environment
Assuming that joint replacement surgery is not going to require careful consideration of Dad's environment...is a big mistake. Imagine needing to use crutches for a sprained ankle for several days and how that would impact your independence. Stairs become an issue, carrying items into his home, meal prep, transportation... to name a few. Paying attention to risks (falling, managing pain, and general post-op care needs) can have a significant impact on his recovery and avoidance of a post-op complication.
Carefully Consider:
Post-Op Help
You would rather have too much help for Dad… than not enough. If he is fortunate and finds himself recovering well and not needing as much post-op help as you may have anticipated - congratulations! Call off the troops.
Just as an "FYI," Dad may need help with:
He will likely have some "Visiting Nurse" home care, which may include a nurse, physical therapist, or both, for some time at home. These visits are usually 30-60 minutes in length, 2-3 times per week. They are targeted on medical care, and not geared to personal support. Dad will receive instruction from these professionals about his daily regime of care and exercises and will be expected to follow their instructions.
Dad's recovery and the success of his surgery is a very individualized experience. Much depends on his commitment to follow through with his post-op care. Maximize the opportunity of what this surgical intervention offers and help him set realistic expectations about his level of activity, mental attitude, and overall wellness.
There are many ways to receive care, get help, and be well prepared. Take advantage of the expertise readily available in the community. You can help your Dad achieve the very best possible outcome of his surgery. Good luck and...I hope he gets well soon!
Joanne MacInnis, RN, is the founder and president of Aberdeen Home Care, Inc., of Danvers, a concierge private duty home care agency in business since 2001. With 35 years of nursing practice, management and administration experience focused on home care and hospice, Joanne and her team specialize in advising and supporting families addressing the elders in their lives retain dignity and quality of life.
