Lowell General Hospital Offers Pre-Surgical Support for Hip and Knee Replacement

Jan. 24, 2011 - PRLog -- Lowell, Mass. – Lowell General Hospital now offers pre-surgical education for patients preparing for joint replacement of a knee or hip, Developed by post-surgical nurses, physical therapists and nurse case managers, and approved by the orthopedic surgeons at Lowell General Hospital, the one-hour session provide patients with answers to concerns about surgery, recovery and concerns around mobility as they transfer to rehabilitation or return home.

“Patients who are prepared going into surgery often have a less anxious, more comfortable experience following joint replacement,” says Gina O’Connor, BSN, RN, director of continuity of care and discharge planning at Lowell General Hospital. “Our orthopedic surgeons worked with us to be sure that the content that we cover provides their patients with answers to the many questions they, and their support people, often have when looking at this type of surgery. Being informed about what to expect when coming in as well as leaving the hospital enables someone to prepare and be ready to focus on a successful recovery.”

The program is held monthly at Lowell General Hospital. Topics cover preparation for surgery, inpatient rehabilitation, planning to go home, day-to-day recovery concerns and progress.

There is no charge for this important pre-surgical class, however, registration is encouraged. For a listing of monthly dates, please visit www.lowellgeneral.org/health or call 1-877-LGH-WELL.