Now that you’re going to have knee replacement surgery, it’s important to know:
- why your knee needs to be replaced
- what you will have in place of your knee
- the risks of surgery
- what you can expect before, during, and after surgery
- what you can do to help make your surgery a success
You and your healthcare team
This information will help you understand how to be an active member of your healthcare team. Having a knee replacement is a team effort. Your healthcare team includes you, your family and friends, as well as:
- your surgeon and other doctors
- nurses
- case manager
- physical therapists
- kinesiologists
- occupational therapists
Your team also includes others that you may or may not see, such as dietitians and clerks. Your healthcare team will support you while you wait for surgery and as you go through rehabilitation and recovery.
What you need to know
It’s important to work with your healthcare team to make sure your care is safe.
- Ask about your healthcare plan. If there’s something you don’t understand, ask your team so they can help.
- Wash your hands often to stop germs from spreading. Remind others to wash their hands too.
- Know what medicines you take, why you take them, and how to take them. Make a list of all the medicines you take and bring it with you to every appointment.
- To prevent falls, look around, slow down, hold onto something, ask for help, and be careful.
Your appointments before and after surgery will be at the Hip and Knee Replacement Clinic. Your case manager will arrange all of your care.
Talk to your case manager if you have any concerns or questions.
