The better prepared you are for surgery, the easier your recovery will be.
Our orthopedic joint replacement specialists are dedicated to performing state-of-the-art hip and knee replacement procedures to improve function and eliminate pain in patients' diseased joints. Nationally, more than half a million total joint replacements are performed each year, with hip and knee procedures accounting for the majority of operations.
The orthopedic specialists at Western Reserve Hospital (WRH) work with a team of medical professionals to assist you throughout your surgery and recovery. You will be seeing many team members while you are a patient at WRH, and they may include the following:
Orthopedic Surgeon:
Your surgeon will perform the surgery and direct your care throughout your hospital stay.
Anesthesiologist and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA):
The anesthesia staff will greet you during the pre-surgical phase of your surgery on the day of arrival. They will provide education about the medication and process used during your surgery. Anesthesia is also responsible for your care during the recovery phase in the Post Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU). It is your responsibility to ask questions, voice concerns and discuss past complications with anesthesia
Consultants:
Your surgeon may ask other physicians to assist in your care. They may evaluate your medical condition and manage other aspects of your care throughout your stay and through the discharge process.
Orthopedic Residents:
Residents will assist in your surgery and follow your progress closely. You will see them in the early morning. They will work with your surgeon and nursing staff to promote a rapid recovery.
Case Manager and/or Social Worker:
Your case manager and social worker will meet with you and assist with your discharge process, which may include arranging for additional care after your hospital stay. If you have any concerns about your discharge, please share them with the staff.
Staff Nurses and Clinical Technical Assistants:
The nurses will offer education and provide medications and treatments as ordered by your doctors. They will assess your physical condition and communicate closely with your surgical team. Both nurses and clinical technical assistants will see to your daily needs and assist with bathing, dressing and mobility.
Physical Therapists:
Your therapist will evaluate your physical function and instruct you on an exercise program after your surgery. They will work with you while you are in the hospital and communicate your progress and discharge needs to the surgical team and case manager.
Occupational Therapists:
Your therapist will focus on promoting independence with self-care tasks, such as bathing, dressing, toileting, and home management tasks while complying with your postoperative restrictions.
Pharmacist:
The pharmacy staff works closely with your physicians and nurses to ensure that you are taking the most appropriate medicine for your condition. They are available to review your medications and the interactions they have with each other. They also can deliver your home-going medications directly to your room.
Patients:
Your role is very important in your recovery. Please communicate with the staff at WRH and ask any questions to ensure you fully understand your instructions. Follow your surgeon’s and therapist’s instructions and restrictions. Please ask questions regarding your care and report any problems or concerns.