Patients scheduled for total joint replacement surgery at St. Rita's, attend
a pre-surgery clinic designed just for them. During the clinic, the patient
and a family member receive personalized attention to learn about the impending
surgery and what to expect after the surgery. Orthopedic Care Managers describe
the surgery, pain management methods, mobility issues, therapies and treatments
to make the experience a positive and successful one. Care Managers are certified
orthopedic nurses who oversee the patient's care from the time the surgery
is scheduled, throughout the hospitalization and during the rehabilitation
period. They work with a team of health professionals to deliver compassionate,
quality care.
"Surgery can be a time of uncertainty for many patients," reports Peg McClellan,
RN, ONC, St. Rita's Care Manager. "The clinic time allows us to focus on the
patient's needs and the concerns of the family. We can answer all their questions
and reassure them that we are there to help them every step of the way," says
McClellan.
In addition to meeting with a Care Manager during the pre-operative clinic,
patients meet with physical and occupational therapists, an equipment specialist
and a pre-admission nurse, who completes the necessary paperwork and reviews
the patient's current medication regimen.
The personalized attention given during the preoperative joint replacement
clinic is just another way St. Rita's strives to deliver quality care. For
more information about this clinic, go to the orthopedics section
of the Web site or contact
an Orthopedic Care Manager at (419) 226-9774, or (800) 232-7762, ext. 9774.
