How do you encourage patients when getting up for the first time post TK/TH replacement?

Ask them simply if they want to go Home
Or remain sick in the Hospital with Complications. If yes, then time to pay the Price

Keep in mind that the primary reason patients are reluctant to get up and weight bear following total joint surgery is fear--fear of falling, fear of pain, etc. In this day and age, total joint surgery is "same day" surgery and the usual protocol is that the physical therapist gets the patient up in the recovery room, the patient's pain is still well controlled from the anesthesia, they are inspired by the PT or RN's confidence in their capacity to regain function so quickly, and to see that they are able to walk on their new hip or knee just fine. The patient needs to demonstrate how to use a walker for the first several weeks, then a cane. It is so not a big deal. If the patient does have severe pain with attempted weight bearing for the first time, then their surgeon should be called. If they are too sedated to get off the gurney, than that is another issue.

First, medicate with prescribed pain meds at least 30 min. Before getting them up. Then, be firm and become their cheerleader. Let them know “You can do this!!” Be persistent and kind.

Setting expectations pre-op is SO important. If patients know that getting OOB the day of surgery is part of the plan, they can anticipate that. While their spinal anesthesia wears off, prepare them for what is next. Let them know that they will be ambulating with nursing or PT and that you will do your best to control their pain.

First, medicate with prescribed pain meds at least 30 min. Before getting them up. Then, be firm and become their cheerleader. Let them know “You can do

Pain management is a huge factor. Making sure patient has a good balance of pain meds to be able to do physical therapy but not too much to feel sleepy. Bed exercises help a lot!

Preoperarive education is of benefit. Hopefully they’re getting that.
Describe the process, address their concerns, set the stage with meds, watch vitals for hypotension and hydrate accordingly, all those cool things nurses get to do. Don’t haul them out of bed, support the operative leg and let them move the rest of their body. Dangle on bedside, extend operative leg initially, let them sit and gather themselves while cheery them on. Always use a gait belt no exceptions. Bring the walker or whatever er they will be using and aide them up to feet. It’s all about confidence as the joint is solid.
Good luck!