Progress Guidelines: General Daily Goals After THA*

Day of Surgery- Post operative

- Routine X-rays in Recovery Room

- Routine blood tests in Recovery Room

- Transfer from Recovery Room to Hospital bed

- Pain Medicine (PCA/PCEA)

- Bedrest

- Abduction pillow between legs (depending on surgeon)

- Clear Liquid Diet

- Intravenous antibiotics (for total of 24 hours)

PostOp Day 1

-Physical Therapy evaluation
- Occupational Therapy evaluation
- Social work evaluation to help with discharge planning
- Improved pain control
- Routine blood tests
- Out of bed in AM (Get up and Go program)
- Ambulation with assistance from Physical Therapy/Nursing
- Regular diet
- Medication to prevent blood clots (for duration of hospital stay)
- Patient education

PostOp Day 2

- Bandage changed/removed
- Ambulation with Physical Therapy/Nursing (twice per day)
- Occupational Therapy (once per day)
- Foley catheter removed (if not done sooner)
- Oral pain medication
- Regular diet
- Plans set for discharge (with Social Worker)
- Patient Education
- Hip precautions / restrictions reinforced

PostOp Day 3

- Dry or nearly dry surgical incision
- Oral Pain medication
- Ambulation with Physical Therapy/Nursing (twice per day)
- Occupational Therapy (once per day)
- Patient Education and discharge instructions
- Discharge to home/rehabilitation facility – anticipated discharge time approximately 10 AM

*Items may vary based on individual surgeon

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