Joint Replacement Care at Home

The Henry Ford at Home team closely follows the physician’s post-operative protocol. Following joint replacement surgery, a Henry Ford Home Health Care nurse will make two visits to the patient’s home; one visit the day following discharge and a second visit to remove the surgical dressing. The registered nurse will also:

• Provide skilled nursing care including wound care and medication management
• Teach the patient and family how to manage the patient’s care
• Monitor the patient’s progress under the direction of the physician
• Coordinate the services of other Henry Ford Home Health Care staff

Physical therapy (PT) services provided in the home vary according to the physician’s specific protocol. Typically, patients who have had a total hip replacement will be visited by a PT within 48 hours of hospital discharge. Visits will continue for two to three weeks and are followed by outpatient physical therapy. If physical therapy is ordered by the physician following a total knee replacement, the therapist will arrive at the patient’s home the day following discharge from the hospital.

The PT will:

• Provide a home safety assessment that evaluates mobility within the home environment to minimize the risk of falls
• Teach exercises that will help improve mobility, balance, and strength to restore normal walking and movement patterns

An occupational therapist (OT) may also be ordered to provide home therapy following joint replacement surgery. The OT’s initial visit is made within 48 hours of discharge from the hospital.

The OT will:

• Assess safety and equipment needs in the home
• Assess and address activities of daily living needs (bathing, dressing, maneuvering in the kitchen and bathroom, etc.)
• Teach joint protection/energy conservation techniques