Providence Orthopaedics - Joint Replacement - Hip Discharge Instructions

Discharge Instructions

Because the lifespan of your new hip depends on how you care for it, you have a very important role in protecting it as it heals.Your care will keep it functioning smoothly.Follow the instructions below and call your doctor if you have any problems or questions.

Follow your “Hip Precautions:”

• Avoid bending hip more than 90 degrees
• Sit with your knees below your hips
• Avoid low or overstuffed chairs avoid bucket seats in cars
• Do not sit in the bathtub
• Avoid crossing your legs while sitting or lying.
• Sit with your legs at least 6 inches apart
• Use your walker to assist with walking
• Use pillows between your legs while in bed
• Use your self-help devices to help with dressing or to pick up items from the floor
• Use your EZ Wrap (Ice Packs) on your knee to reduce swelling
• Remember to wash your EZ Wrap Ice Pack container thoroughly when you get home
•  Wash your elastic stockings when you get home
• Wear elastic stockings: put on in the morning and remove at bedtime
• Take your medications as listed on your discharge instructions form the hospital
• Follow your exercise program that you were given in the hospital
• You may shower, no tub baths
• Notify your doctor/dentist that you have a total hip replacement BEFORE you have any procedure or your teeth cleaned
• Call your doctor if you develop any of these symptoms: fever greater than 101 degrees Fahrenheit, drainage from the hip incision,  redness or swelling around the incision, calf pain or excessive swelling, chest pain, congestion, or difficulty breathing,  pain not relieved by pain medications