Commonly Asked Questions

When may family/friends contact me after surgery?

After your surgery, it may take between two and six hours to arrive on the surgical unit if you are staying overnight. The recovery time for each individual can vary and depends on your response to anesthesia and pain medications.

Once you are brought to the surgical unit, the staff will need a few minutes to get you settled and comfortable before you are ready to contact your family/friends.

May I take my own medications?

NEVER take your own medications while you are in the hospital, unless you are requested to do so by your nurse. Please bring a current list of your medications so that we can have them ordered for you by your doctors.

Am I considered an inpatient or outpatient?

If you have any questions about inpatient vs. outpatient medical status, it’s important to discuss this in advance with your surgeon or your surgical coordinator.

• A general rule of thumb is, your stay in the hospital may be considered an outpatient stay if you stay only one overnight.
• If you stay more than one overnight due to medical reasons, you may be considered an inpatient.
• Be sure you know what your insurance plan covers for inpatient vs. outpatient and which one your surgeon is recommending.
• The surgeon’s office may also need to contact your insurance company for approval for the surgery based on your status as an inpatient or an outpatient. This is called a prior authorization. With certain insurances, you cannot proceed with surgery unless you have this authorization.
• Be sure your surgeon’s office has contacted your insurance company for a prior authorization, if needed, as this can mean that your copay is different.

How long will I be in the hospital?

Your length of stay is dependent upon the type of procedure being done, your medical status and how well you are progressing with your therapy. On average, joint replacement patients spend one night in the hospital after surgery, patients having arthroscopic surgery typically go home the same day as surgery.

Where will I be going after surgery?

You should expect to go home after discharge from the hospital. Further therapy services are arranged for by an assigned social worker or case manager if there is a medical or physical need after a therapy evaluation and as per physician protocol.

How soon after surgery may I eat?

Surgical patients usually start with clear liquids. If you do not become nauseated, you will be advanced to your preadmission diet.

When may I shower?

This varies depending on your surgeon’s instructions, but typically you may shower within a few days after surgery or as instructed by nurse on discharge.

What are anticoagulants?

Anticoagulants (blood thinners) are a type of drug your doctor prescribes to prevent blood clots. Commonly used medications are Coumadin, Lovenox, Arixtra, Xarelto, Plavix, Eliquis and aspirin. If ordered by your physician, you will be directed to stay on one of them for a period of time after surgery. If on Coumadin (Warfarin), you may need to have your blood tested to monitor the effect of the drug and to regulate the dosage. Once discharged home, arrangements will be made to continue monitoring your blood.

How often will I receive therapy?

After your initial evaluation in the hospital, you will receive therapy once a day. Your therapist will be instructed by the surgeon as to what therapy you need.

Where do I get the equipment I need?

Patients being discharged to home may receive equipment from either the physical therapist, occupational therapist or case manager. A three-in-one commode and a single point cane may be recommended by the therapists. Many insurance companies do not cover this. The discharge planner will let you know. Handheld tools are not covered by insurance companies. You will need to purchase them if the therapist recommends you need them.

Will I be able to use stairs at home?

Your physical therapist will make sure you can successfully navigate stairs prior to your discharge home. You will find that your endurance will improve once you are home, but it would be beneficial to have someone available to assist you in the first days after discharge.

What if I have an issue while I am in the hospital?

Please do not wait until after you are discharged to voice any concerns that you may have. Members of the nursing administration, as well as our volunteers, make daily rounds. Your suggestions are very important to us. We want your stay to be a superior patient experience.

Who will I see in the hospital after my surgery?

You will be cared for by an entire team of professionals under the direction of your surgeon. After surgery you may be seen by the surgeon, surgical resident, nurse practitioner and/or physician assistant to monitor your progress and assure the best possible recovery from your surgery.