Nursing a Patient with a Knee Replacement

Temple J (2006) Care of patients undergoing knee replacement surgery. Nursing Standard.
20, 48, 48-56. Date of acceptance: March 31 2006.

Patient must be prepared mentally, physically and socially

Post-op complications

Hypovolemic shock

Atelectasis

Pneumonia

Urinary retention

Infection

DVT or PE

Constipation

All interventions and care is completed on the basis of; 

promoting independence, maintaining dignity and ensuring respect. 

Pre-op fasting - ensure guidelines are followed and patient is comfortable. This may require IV fluids. 

Eating and drinking after the surgery when the patient is ready. Be ready with anti-emetics for post-op nausea. 

Monitor haemoglobin - a blood transfusion may be required. 

Ensure appropriate dressing is in place and intact. Communicate when it is changed. Liase with tissue viability is it becomes complicated. Monitor wound drainage.

Pain management. Appropriate analgesia allows exercise more easily. 

Education about changing position to ensure skin integrity. 

Education and measures to prevent DVT. 

Help the patient to follow the physio programme and early ambulation. 

Minimise risk of infection

Observe vital signs and neurovascular assessments. 

Pre-op education! Warn about pain. Talk the patient through the surgery journey. 

Communicate with family 

Mark Dornan

QUB Nursing Student