Total hip replacement: patient satisfaction and early outcomes

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess patient satisfaction with their healthcare experience, total hip replacement outcome, compliance with post operative rehabilitation and consenting process effectiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

A consecutive sample of patients between January 2007 and September 2008 was identified. A novel questionnaire was designed to assess outcomes and applied via phone interview by an independent assessor.

Findings

All patients recalled the consenting/education process with a high proportion recalling surgical risks/benefits. Overall satisfaction was good or better in 76 per cent of the cohort. Post‐operative compliance with the rehabilitation programme in 70 per cent of the cohort was achieved. Walking, as the surrogate functional marker, was deemed good or better in 76 per cent.

Practical implications

The education process and a purposefully designed booklet helped educate patients. Those dissatisfied with physiotherapy generally underwent surgery late in the week and were assessed/treated by the emergency physiotherapy service. Consequently, full‐time weekend physiotherapy for arthroplasty patients was implemented.

Originality/value

Results revealed a high‐volume treatment centre with outcomes comparable to international standards. A potential problem with physiotherapy cover was identified and the loop closed.

Citation

Kelly, E., Campbell, J. and Murray, P. (2013), "Total hip replacement: patient satisfaction and early outcomes", International Journal of Health Care Quality Assurance, Vol. 26 No. 3, pp. 262-268. https://doi.org/10.1108/09526861311311445