Patient Education
As a local leader in orthopedic care, Trinity Health Michigan delivers high-quality surgical services. Patients put their trust in us because we consistently provide an outstanding experience. These efforts start long before surgery day. Patient education helps you know what to expect and reduces uncertainty before and after your procedure.
Orthopedic Surgery Patient Education at Trinity Health Michigan
Our patient-centered approach means you are never alone. Surgeons, nurses, care coordinators and therapists work together to help you prepare for surgery. We explain which procedure is best for you and how it can help you feel and function better. The team also takes time to answer any questions you may have. Find out more about orthopedic surgery and arthroscopy.
Getting the most out of your procedure involves following instructions and taking good care of yourself. We make this process easier by providing free patient education in the form of:
- Live virtual classes with our patient navigators
- Booklets
- Pre-recorded video sessions
How Can Orthopedic Surgery Patient Education Help Me?
Patient education answers common questions and helps you feel more prepared for surgery. We also provide recommendations to lower the risk of complications that can extend a hospital stay or require readmission after you go home.
Topics covered in orthopedic surgery patient education include:
- Organizing your home: Taking extra steps before you leave for the hospital can help you stay safe and comfortable when you return. You may wish to eliminate tripping hazards and put frequently used items in an easy-to-reach area.
- Steps to take before surgery day: You learn when to stop taking certain medications and eating solid foods. We may recommend drinking a special beverage a few hours before your procedure.
- What to expect after surgery: You will feel some discomfort after you wake up, but we’ll give you medication to make it tolerable. You can also expect to get out of bed as soon as it is safe to do so. Depending on the type of surgery, you may start standing or walking a few hours after you wake up.
- Going home: We help you set realistic recovery expectations. You’ll need a lot of rest in the first few days. After that, you can gradually increase your activity level. If you need any medical supplies, we ensure you have them before leaving the hospital.
- Self-care: You learn how to take care of surgical wounds to ensure they heal correctly. This may involve changing bandages or waiting to take a shower. Our team also explains how to spot the early signs of complications and when to contact our team.
Get Orthopedic Surgery Patient Education
Each Trinity Health Michigan hospital offers patient education for different orthopedic procedures. Our team will let you know how to access the information that’s right for you. Many of our training videos and virtual patient education sessions are available online. If you have difficulty finding them or have additional questions, please call your surgeon’s office.