Postdischarge support for elective hip arthroplasty patients

This longitudinal study. n 29/ investigated the nature of provision of support available to postoperative discharge patients experiencing elective primary hip arthroplasty. Patients' expectations of support were investigated prior to discharge and at six weeks and three months postdischarge. The assessment tools used were the SF-36 Health Survey ( UK Acute Version) to measure health concepts, and an open ended qualitative questionnaire to investigate the nature of support provision. Patients were assessed between 5 -7 days while in the hospital and six weeks and three months postsurgical procedure. Results indicated a significant improvement in physical activity. p < 0:01/, pain. p < 0:1/, and social activity. p < 0:01/ over time for both groups; however, the pattern of change was different. Patients without partners or close family demonstrated slower patterns of recovery and different levels of physical and emotional factors affecting social function. Reported levels of pain interfering with daily life were greater at six weeks in patients without partners. p < 0:01/. Levels of perceived support were significantly different between the groups. p < 0:0004/ and levels of actual support were also signifi cantly different. p < 0:025/. This study, although small, suggests that patients without support may be more vulnerable in the early postoperative discharge period.