Preoperative education for orthopaedic patients: systematic review

Abstract

The review clearly highlights the need for well-designed, methodologically sound research into the outcomes of patient education. It also points to the need to study patient education from the point of view of empowerment.

experience of preoperative patient education for women preparing for and recovering from total knee replacement

“…Johansson et al (2005) noted that the primary focus of patient education might not translate directly to the outcomes measured in current research, which raises valid questions about whether the body of preoperative education research reflects the patient experience. The choice of which patient outputs to measure, such as the length of inpatient stay, is strongly influenced by contractual arrangements and the established standards of care (Suhonen & Leino-Kilpi, 2006).…”

“…The primary example explored in this research is preoperative knee replacement education programs. Interestingly, patients perceive preoperative education for TKA as a standard practice, but providers view it as an additional, albeit required, service (Johansson, Nuutila, Virtanen, Katajisto, & Salanterä, 2005).…”

“…However, these results do not capture or express how a patient makes sense of the educational experience, or how the experience influences empowerment. Also, no standard educational approach has been defined, nor have the efforts to engage and educate joint replacement patients been rigorously evaluated to determine the best way to meet patients' individual needs (Johansson et al, 2005).…”

“…The choice of which patient outputs to measure, such as the length of inpatient stay, is strongly influenced by contractual arrangements and the established standards of care (Suhonen & Leino-Kilpi, 2006). Even with improved technology and innovative surgical processes, the standard hospital stay is based on customary approaches (Johansson et al, 2005).…”

“…Even though education is directed at particular healthcare functions, there is a wide variation in the content of preoperative programs. Johansson et al (2005) noted that preoperative patient education has become more diffuse, but remains focused on areas that include those identified by Suhonen and Leion-Kilpi…”