ST VINCENT’S Private Hospital Toowoomba has devised an innovative new patient education program to help patients who have undergone joint replacement surgery to adjust to life post surgery.

Orthopaedic Nurse Educator from St Anne’s Ward Carmen Parsons said patients who have a shoulder, hip or knee replacement have a much better recovery if they are well-prepared for surgery and post-operation rehabilitation.

Mrs Parsons said the program, called the Joint Replacement Education Program, is a first for St Vincent’s Hospital and she was excited about delivering sessions to patients and their family members.

“We hold the sessions once a week, Wednesdays from 10am to midday, at our Clinical School and we cover a range of topics including what to expect with joint replacement surgery, what to bring to hospital, what not to bring to hospital, what to expect on discharge and other important information.

“I also talk about pain relief options, falls prevention and I have a strong emphasis on making homes safe and ready. Patients and their families need to think about a number of issues such as showering, stairways and possible trip hazards.

“During the session, we have a tour of St Anne’s Ward and I familiarise patients with the various pieces of equipment they will see in their hospital room.

“Downs Physiotherapy here at St Vincent’s Hospital is partnering with us on the program so that patients can book in for post-operative rehabilitation. Again we know patients have a much better outcome if they start their physiotherapy early,” she said.

Mrs Parsons said the first Joint Replacement Education Program was held in February and numbers had been growing steadily.

“The feedback from patients and their family members has been very positive. They find the information useful and can make plans and preparations that will make recovery much easier,” she said.

Anyone interested in attending the program or has further queries can phone 4690 4139.