You are conducting preoperative patient education for Mrs. Benson, a 76-year-old who is having a hip replacement. You have included her husband in the teaching, but both of the Bensons seem a little vague on the details you are teaching. You are concerned that after the procedure, neither of them will remember your postoperative instructions. What should you do to help them remember and comply with your postoperative instructions?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Providing written instructions and the option to call the office with questions is the best option for ensuring that the Bensons can remember and comply with postoperative instructions. This allows them to refer back to the instructions as needed, and also provides a way for them to clarify any confusion or ask questions that may arise after the procedure. Repeating the instructions during the preoperative visit or documenting their understanding in the medical record may be helpful, but they do not provide the same level of support as written instructions and the option for follow-up communication. Cancelling the surgery is not necessary in this situation. Visiting Mrs. Benson in postop to review the instructions again may also be helpful, but it is not as practical as providing written instructions.

You Are Conducting Preoperative Patient Education for Mrs