Patients who require orthopaedic surgery are taken to a multi-surgical unit with a subpecialty in Orthopaedics. All rooms are equipped with cable TV hook up and phone jacks. Care is provided by a multidisciplinary team that consists of surgeons, surgical residents, nurses, case managers, physical therapists, physician's assistants, nurse practitioners, occupational therapists, social workers, nutritionists, home care coordinators, patient care technicians, and clinical assistants. Quality patient care is the goal of each member of our team. Our vision is consistent with that of the institution as a whole: "To make the best even better by providing every patient with an exceptional health care experience." When you arrive on the inpatient unit, you can expect the following to be a part of the general care of any patient who has had orthopaedic surgery. Your surgical experience will occur in four phases:
Before surgery, staff will provide you with hospital clothing, an identification wristband, and an explanation of what to expect in the surgical area. They will ask you a number of questions and initiate the paperwork needed to provide your care during your hospital stay. Your family and/or significant others are welcome to stay with you until you are taken to the Operating Room. Your belongings may be stored in a locker if you are here for outpatient surgery. If you will be admitted to the hospital, it is preferable that your belongings are sent home. While you wait to be taken to the operating room, an Anesthesiologist will administer an anesthesia. Both will ask you a few more questions in preparation for your surgery. Your Anesthesiologist will help you decide which type of anesthesia is best for you. Your Surgeon will review the type of surgery to expect, any potential complications, and any alternatives. If not done ahead of time, you will be asked to sign a consent form. Once in the operating room, you will be prepped for surgery. The skin will be cleansed with an antimicrobial agent and shaved if needed. All body areas will be draped except the part that will be operated on. Your Anesthesiologist will be at your side throughout the surgery. Your Surgeon will guide the team though the actual operation. Depending on the length and complexity of your surgery, a number of other team members will be present. The team may include Nurses, Surgical Residents, Physician's Assistants, Nurse Practitioners, Surgical Technicians, and Patient Aides. Once the surgery is complete, you will be taken to the recovery room. You will be continuously monitored by a nurse until you are fully awake and alert. Your nurse will explain the equipment and any dressings or tubes that were placed on you. You will also be instructed in your level of activity and any exercises that you need to perform during this period. You are kept in this area until you are considered stable enough to be moved; this decision is made by your anesthesiologist. Depending on the type of surgery and your post operative condition, you will proceed to one of three areas: - The Intensive Care Unit
- The Intermediate Care Unit
- The Inpatient Orthopedic Unit
Pain management
The methods used to control your pain will be determined by your surgeon. The surgeons and nurses will monitor the effectiveness of these methods and modify as needed. Prevention of complications
Depending on the surgical procedure performed, a variety of methods will be used to prevent or decrease any complications that may occur. You will be monitored by the multidisciplinary team and asked to report specific signs and symptoms. Early mobility
Early mobility is the key to a progressive recovery. Your surgeon will determine your level of activity and communicate the plan to you and the other team members. Your cooperation with the plan leads to a successful rehabilitation period. Patient Education
Members of the team will provide instruction regarding your procedure, plan of care, equipment, and your part in the recovery process. Family members and/or your significant other are welcome to participate in the teaching. Their participation will provide you with the support you will need after discharge. Discharge Planning
The length of your hospital stay is determined by the goals of your care plan. Once these goals are met, you will be considered safe to be discharged. Your social worker and home care coordinator will make arrangements for your discharge whether it be to home or to another facility. Nursing
Your primary nurse will develop a responsibility relationship with you which will continue in a therapeutic way through your length of stay, assuring that your care is planned and coordinated. Your individual needs will be assessed and specific approaches to meet those needs will be designed. The primary nurse works with your physician to coordinate and personalize your care.
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