Pre-Surgical Education: 6 Steps

Once the need for joint replacement has been ascertained, patients are introduced to Joint University at their doctor’s office and in pre-operative education classes. Here, doctors, the Joint University coordinator and care team members use videos, wall diagrams, brochures, and patient guidebooks to teach patients what the surgery is all about, how it will impact them and what their role will be in their own recovery. Every attempt is made to set realistic expectations, put patients at ease and improve their level of confidence.

The Joint University care team offers a two-hour pre-operative class in which patients and their coaches are instructed on pre-operative needs, introduced to the daily routine that will be expected of them on the unit and taught some pre-conditioning (strengthening) exercises to start before surgery in order to improve their outcomes. Discharge planning and preparing the home for safety, comfort and recovery of the patient are also covered here. The Joint University care team addresses many other pertinent issues, such as performing post-surgery strengthening exercises, dealing with post-operative complications and bringing in assistive devices for the home.  Patients have the option of receiving their instruction online. It is mandatory that patients attend a live session OR watch the videos online.

Weiss also offers online and in person pre-operative classes for patients who will be having spine surgery. These courses help patients plan and prepare for surgery and understand the recovery process.

To complete your Online Pre-Surgical Education Course, please follow these 6 Steps:

Step #1: Click on the Joint Replacement or Spine Surgery link below to watch the Appropriate Pre-Surgical Video

• Joint Replacement (Hip or Knee) Patient Education Video Course
• Spine Surgery Patient Education Video Course

Step #2: Fill out the Online Discharge Planning Form

Step #3: Read and Download Patient Instructions

• Cleaning Your Skin Before Surgery and Preparing Your Skin Before Surgery.

Step #4: Complete and bring in printed copy of the following forms to either your pre-op or clinic visit

• Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (HOOS) Forms – Variety of Languages
• Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) Forms – Variety of Languages

Step #5: View the Incentive Spirometer Video

Step #6: Review this important information about your upcoming surgery

Begin Step 1 - Joint

Begin Step 1 - Spine

Questions?

 Call (773) 564-5680.