- Patients scheduled for hip or knee replacement
- Family members and caregivers
- How to prepare your health and home
- Which questions to ask before surgery
- What to expect on surgery day
- Preparation begins weeks before surgery.
- Control of medical conditions can reduce avoidable risk.
- A simple home plan makes the first week easier.
- Know whom to call before you leave the surgical facility.
Overview
Preparing well for joint replacement does not require perfection. It means identifying the things that can be improved, making a realistic plan for the first few days at home, and knowing what to expect.
Your care team will give you instructions that are specific to your health and operation. Those instructions should always take priority over general information.
Optimize Your Health
Conditions such as diabetes, anemia, smoking, poor nutrition, and untreated dental or skin infections can affect healing. Your surgeon may recommend additional testing or treatment before surgery.
This is not about creating unnecessary barriers. The goal is to lower preventable risk and give you the best chance of a smooth recovery.
- Keep blood sugar within the range recommended by your medical team.
- Stop smoking and avoid nicotine products.
- Treat active infections before surgery.
- Eat adequate protein and stay hydrated.
- Discuss any recent illness or medication change.
Review Your Medications
Bring a complete medication and supplement list to your preoperative visit. Some medicines may need to be paused or adjusted before surgery, especially blood thinners, certain diabetes medications, and anti-inflammatory medicines.
Do not stop a prescribed medication on your own. Follow the instructions from your surgeon, anesthesiologist, and prescribing physician.
Write down the exact date and time you should stop or restart each medication.
Prepare Your Home
Most patients do not need major home modifications. A few simple changes can make movement safer and reduce stress during the first week.
- Remove loose rugs and clutter from walkways.
- Place commonly used items at waist level.
- Arrange a firm chair with arms.
- Prepare simple meals or groceries in advance.
- Make a plan for pets, children, and transportation.
- Confirm that your walker or cane is available if prescribed.
Plan for Support
Arrange for a responsible adult to help you get home and remain available during the early recovery period. The amount of help you need depends on your operation, home setup, and general health.
Most patients become more independent quickly, but having help with meals, medications, and household tasks can make the first few days much easier.
The Day of Surgery
Follow the eating and drinking instructions provided by anesthesia. Arrive at the requested time with identification, insurance information, and any required equipment.
After surgery, the team will focus on pain control, safe walking, eating and drinking, urination, and confirming that you are ready to recover at home or in the appropriate setting.
Questions Patients Commonly Ask
Do I need someone with me?
Yes. You will need transportation home and should have a responsible adult available during the early recovery period.
Should I exercise before surgery?
Yes, within your comfort and medical limits. Walking, light strengthening, and maintaining activity can make recovery easier.
What should I bring?
Bring identification, your medication list, comfortable clothing, and any walker or assistive device requested by your care team.
What if I become sick before surgery?
Call the office. Fever, respiratory illness, skin problems, dental infection, or other new medical issues may need to be reviewed before proceeding.
The best preparation is usually simple: understand the plan, improve the risks that can be improved, and arrange enough support that you can focus on walking, resting, and healing.