Post-Op Protocols

About Knee Replacement: Walking After Knee Replacement – Day Two

Medications

• Your pain will be managed with shots or pills.

Activity

• Work on straightening your knee when in bed. NO PILLOWS UNDER KNEE.
• You will be out of bed for meals and bathing, at least 3 times daily,
and the therapist will help you walk 50 ft. with a walker or crutches.
• Work on bending your knee: sit with the knee bent when in the chair and work on exercises with the therapist.

Breathing Exercises

• Deep breathing and/or using the breathing exerciser every 4 hours while awake is very important.

Diet

• You may have a regular diet.

Bathroom

• A bedside commode is available until you are able to walk to the bathroom.
• Walking to the bathroom will help you build your strength and prepare you for discharge home.

Self Care

• You can bathe yourself with a little help for your legs.

Planning Your Return Home

• Plan your transportation home and discuss with your therapist getting in and out of the car.
• Work with the therapist and nurse to identify equipment you will need at home; the case manager can help you obtain the equipment.

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