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MAKE PLANS TO HAVE HELP

Before your surgery, you will be asked who will help you after. You will need to identify a caregiver, companion,
friend, neighbor, or family member that can help you. Ideally, they should accompany you to your appointments
with Dr. Eccles and should also read and understand these instructions.

You are required to have someone stay with you in the same house until you are
entirely comfortable moving around on your own.
• We require this person to be with you for at least a week, day and night,
for your safety.
• You will need someone to drive you to therapy and doctor
appointments, run errands, or grocery shop.
• You may need some help with medications, bathing, cooking, or doing
exercises.
• Arrange for childcare/dependent/pet care if needed.

BENEFITS OF OUTPATIENT SURGERY

Historically, patients would be admitted to a hospital for many days after a joint
replacement. Things have vastly changed over the years, and we’ve learned how to improve patient outcomes and
decrease complications by getting you back to your home, away from a hospital or rehab center. This is made
possible with recent advances such as improved perioperative anesthesia, less invasive techniques, and initiation of
rehabilitation protocols soon after surgery.

The overwhelming majority of our patients return home safely on the same day as their hip or knee replacement
and typically this is our plan with you. Your home is the best place to recover for several reasons:
• There are fewer germs in your home that could increase your risk of infection
• You will recover faster having to get up and move more often
• At home, you can sleep in your own bed and eat your food
• You can set your own therapy program schedule, such as exercising and walking
• You have control of your pain medication, and Dr. Eccles will prescribe the exact medications for the home that
you would get in the hospital setting
• It is more convenient for friends and family to visit you at your home

PREPARE FOR YOUR SURGICAL DAY

PACKING FOR THE HOSPITAL/SURGICAL CENTER – WHAT TO BRING

• Identification - Bring your driver’s license or government-issued ID and your insurance card on the morning of
surgery.
• Clothing - Plan to wear comfortable, easy-to-remove clothing and nonslip shoes. You will change into a patient
gown shortly after arrival. At discharge, you will change back into the clothing you bring.

*You will be called in the afternoon before your

surgery for your arrival time*

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