Artificial knee or hip joint: why patient education is key

Sabrina Ueltschi, what is the best way to prepare for an hip or knee prosthesis?

It is important that the decision to have an operation feels "right". Transparent and detailed patient information from the responsible specialists is essential for this. Patients need to know all their options. Only by providing this information they can decide for themselves if the operation is the right choice for them. It is therefore important to be treated in a clinic and by doctors who take this matter into account.

Scientific studies also show that proper patient education is crucial for recovery. Why?

Knowledge provides security and trust. You understand what is happening, have fewer uncertainties and fears and can therefore focus much better on getting well. Informed patients are not helpless, but an active part of the recovery process.

At the Rosenklinik, you have been working successfully with agile+® for several years. What distinguishes agile+® from other prosthesis programmes?

agile+® is a so-called fast-track procedure. The Rosenklinik was the first clinic in Switzerland to introduce it. It stands for patient-centred treatment based on knowledge, movement and care. Surgical and anaesthetic procedures have been adapted and clinic processes aligned accordingly. Another unique service is our care management, which acts as a link between patients, specialists, physiotherapists and, if necessary, Spitex (Aide et soins à domicile) or rehabilitation clinics. We accompany and support patients and are their first point of contact in case of uncertainties and questions. We close knowledge gaps that conventional information sessions do not cover. Everything within agile+® is therefore designed to ensure that patients are well informed and can be mobilised again as quickly as possible. Our patients feel safe, their length of hospitalisation is shortened and they are given more support in their return to everyday life.

What exactly does your work as a care manager involve?

We get in touch with our patients before their stay in hospital, assess their needs and, if necessary, organise inpatient rehabilitation or treatment after their hospital stay. Our main focus is on providing information. We coordinate all the parties involved, from the doctor to the nursing staff to the physiotherapist, and ensure that everyone pulls together. We are also available as a first point of contact for patients after they have left the clinic.

What is the feedback from patients regarding agile+®?

The concept is highly appreciated. Our patients know that we are also there for them after their hospitalisation. What's more, they are often surprised at how quickly they can walk again after an operation and that our stories were not just stories.

Rosenklinik Care Management

Together with her colleagues in Care Management, Sabrina Ueltschi looks after all patients who have an artificial knee or hip joint implanted at the Rosenklinik using agile+®. Care Management is the link between them, their specialists, physiotherapy and, if necessary, aftercare and is the first point of contact for patients with uncertainties and questions.