Healing at home after joint replacement

After being discharged from the hospital, you will go directly to the comfort of your home, instead of being admitted to a nursing home or rehabilitation facility. If you don’t have help at home, we can assist in coordinating in-home care during your recovery.

BENEFITS OF HEALING AT HOME

A large number of studies show you can greatly decrease certain health risks after surgery by healing at home.

RISKS INCLUDE

  • Surgical wound infection
  • Bladder or kidney (urinary tract) infection
  • Being readmitted to the hospital
  • Having breathing problems or respiratory infection (pneumonia)
  • Having to seek emergency medical care

YOU ARE MORE LIKELY TO

  • Regain your mobility and independence faster
  • Have less pain
  • Sleep better
  • Be more involved in making recovery decisions

COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT Healing at Home

I live alone. Can I still heal at home after surgery?

Yes! There are many options to make sure you can heal at home safely and comfortably. Having friends, family members or neighbors help you in the days following surgery is an important part of healing at home. Professional home health care services can also provide extra care, if needed.

Is healing at home is right for me?

While most people can heal at home, it is important to talk with your healthcare provider about your health history. Unless you have one or more serious medical conditions, healing at home may be the best option for you.

What kind of medical care can I receive at home?

People who heal at home after joint replacement surgery can receive many of the same health care services available in a nursing home or rehabilitation hospital.

  • Nursing care to help with managing medicines, surgical wound care and watching for signs of infection
  • Home health care aids for bathing, dressing, and other personal care needs
  • Physical and occupational therapy

PREPARING A CHECKLIST
FOR HEALING AT HOME

Did you know that AFTER JOINT REPLACEMENT SURGERY...

  • For most people, it is safe to heal at home
  • Only people with very serious health problems need to go to a nursing home or rehabilitation facility
  • You are less likely to have serious problems if you heal at home
  • You are less likely to be re-admitted to the hospital if you heal at home

ASSISTIVE DEVICES MAY INCLUDE

Many of these devices can be rented from Bridger Orthopedics, your local medical goods store or pharmacy.

Cane, Crutches or Walker
Raised Toilet Seat
Compression Socks
Grabbing/Reaching Device
Sock/Stocking Aid