Preparation While Waiting for Surgery
You’ve had a consultation with the surgeon, who has confirmed that you are a candidate for elective joint replacement surgery. You are now on the surgical waitlist.
While you wait to be offered a surgery date, here are some important steps you can take to prepare:
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Continue to work with your primary care provider and your surgeon to manage osteoarthritis symptoms
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Meet with a pharmacist for a medication review
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See your primary care provider to discuss Goals of Care (Green Sleeve, Personal Directive)
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Access the AHS Prehabilitation Program for surgical optimization
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See your dentist to optimize oral health
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Start pre op exercises and become more active
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Lose weight and manage diabetes - Alberta Healthy Living Program; Alberta Obesity Centre
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Manage wounds and skin conditions
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Clear infections, colds, and flus prior to surgery
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Consider a smoking cessation program
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Reduce consumption of alcohol and recreational drugs
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Avoid injections in your surgical joint in the three months leading up to your estimated surgical time frame, if known.
