A classic study reported by Sunk et al. (2007) found a specific genetic link in OA of the knee. They reported that an increase in discoidin domain receptor 2 (DDR-2) expression in diseased joint cartilage was correlated with the degree of tissue damage. The authors concluded that this change occurs after the decrease in proteoglycans from aging. Studies are being conducted to further explore the genetic factors related to OA.

Other factors that can lead to OA are obesity and smoking. Obesity causes joint degeneration, particularly in the knees. Smoking leads to knee cartilage loss, especially in patients with a family history of knee OA. This finding shows a gene-environment interaction in the cause of knee OA (Ding et al., 2007).

Secondary OA occurs less often than primary disease and can result from other musculoskeletal conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis. Trauma to the joints from excessive use or abuse also predisposes a person to OA. Certain heavy manual occupations (e.g., carpet laying, construction, farming) cause high-intensity or repetitive stress to the joints. The risk for hip and knee OA is also increased in professional athletes, especially football players, runners, and gymnasts.

In a small percentage of people, congenital anomalies, trauma, and joint sepsis can result in secondary OA. For example, injuries or joint surgeries resulting from motor vehicle crashes or falls can cause OA in later years. Certain metabolic diseases (e.g., diabetes mellitus, Paget’s disease of the bone) and blood disorders (e.g., hemophilia, sickle cell disease) can also cause joint degeneration.

Incidence and Prevalence

The prevalence of OA varies among different populations but is a universal problem. Most people older than 60 years have joint changes that can be seen on x-ray examination, although not all of those people actually develop the disease. According to Arthritis Foundation estimates, 16 million women older than 40 years have OA compared with 11 million men. Although the cause for this difference is not known, a contributing factor is probably obesity. As women age and have children, they tend to gain more weight than men.

Health Promotion and Maintenance

Based on the contributing factors for OA development, several lifestyle changes can help prevent or slow joint degeneration. These practices include:

• Keep body weight within normal limits; obesity causes excess wear on joints, especially hips and knees.

• Stop or do not start smoking.

• Avoid or limit activities that promote stress on joints, unless absolutely necessary.

• Limit participation in recreational sports that can damage joints, such as football.

• Wear supportive shoes to prevent falls and damage to foot joints, especially metatarsal joints.

• Do not perform repetitive stress activities, such as knitting or typing, for prolonged periods.

• Avoid risk-taking activities to prevent trauma that can result in OA later in life.

Patient-Centered Collaborative Care

Assessment

History

Patients with OA usually seek medical attention in ambulatory care settings for their joint pain. However, you will also care for those who have OA as a secondary diagnosis in acute and chronic care facilities. Ask the patient about the course of the disease. Collect information specifically related to OA, such as the nature and location of joint pain and how much pain he or she is experiencing. Remember that older patients may underreport pain, resulting in inadequate pain management. Use a 0-to-10 scale or other assessment tool to assess pain intensity. Chapter 5 discusses pain assessment in detail.

Physical Assessment/Clinical Manifestations

In the early stage of the disease, the clinical manifestations of OA may appear similar to those of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The distinction between OA and RA becomes more evident as the disease progresses. Table 20-1 compares the major characteristics of both diseases and their common drug therapy.

TABLE 20-1 DIFFERENTIAL FEATURES OF RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS AND OSTEOARTHRITIS

CHARACTERISTIC	RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS	OSTEOARTHRITIS
Typical onset (age)	35-45 yr	Older than 60 yr
Gender affected	Female (3 : 1)	Female (2 : 1)
Risk factors or cause	Autoimmune (genetic basis) Emotional stress (triggers exacerbation) Environmental factors	Aging Genetic factor (possible) Obesity Trauma Occupation
Disease process	Inflammatory	Degenerative
Disease pattern	Bilateral, symmetric, multiple joints Usually affects upper extremities first Distal interphalangeal joints of hands spared Systemic	May be unilateral, single joint Affects weight-bearing joints and hands, spine Metacarpophalangeal joints spared Nonsystemic
Laboratory findings	Elevated rheumatoid factor, antinuclear antibody, ESR	Normal or slightly elevated ESR
Common drug therapy	NSAIDs (short-term use) Methotrexate Leflunomide (Arava) Corticosteroids Biological response modifiers Other immunosuppressive agents	NSAIDs (short-term use) Acetaminophen Other analgesics

ESR, Erythrocyte sedimentation rate; NSAIDs, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

The typical patient with OA is a middle-aged or older woman who reports chronic joint pain and stiffness. Early in the course of the disease, the pain diminishes after rest and worsens after activity. Later the pain occurs with slight motion or even when at rest. Because cartilage has no nerve supply, the pain is probably caused by joint and soft-tissue involvement and by spasms of the surrounding muscles. During the joint examination, the patient may have pain or tenderness by palpation or by putting the joint through range of motion. Crepitus may be felt or heard as the joint goes through range of motion. One or more joints may be affected. The patient may also report joint stiffness that usually lasts less than 30 minutes after a period of inactivity.

On inspection, the joint is often enlarged because of bony hypertrophy. The joint feels hard on palpation. Although not common, the presence of inflammation in patients with OA indicates a secondary synovitis. About half of patients with hand involvement have Heberden’s nodes (at the distal interphalangeal [DIP] joints) and Bouchard’s nodes (at the proximal interphalangeal [PIP] joints). Although OA is not a bilateral, symmetric disease, these large bony nodes appear on both hands, especially in women. The nodes may be painful and red. Some patients experience pain in developing nodes or when nodes are palpated. These deformities tend to be familial and are often a cosmetic concern to patients.

Joint effusions (excess joint fluid) are common when the knees are involved. When trying to differentiate the presence of fluid from subcutaneous tissue, you may be able to move fluid from the infrapatellar notch (the area directly below the knee) into the suprapatellar area (directly above the knee).

Observe any atrophy of skeletal muscle from disuse. The vicious pain cycle of the disease discourages the movement of painful joints, which may result in contractures, muscle atrophy, and further pain. Loss of function may result, depending on which joints are involved. Hip or knee pain may cause the patient to limp and restrict walking distance.

Osteoarthritis (OA) can affect the spine, especially the lumbar region at the L3-4 level or the cervical region at C4-6 (neck). Compression of spinal nerve roots may occur as a result of vertebral facet bone spurs. The patient typically reports radiating pain, stiffness, and muscle spasms in one or both extremities.

Severe pain and deformity interfere with ambulation and self-care. In addition to performing a musculoskeletal assessment, collaborate with the physical and occupational therapists to conduct a functional assessment. Assess the patient’s mobility and ability to perform ADLs. Chapter 8 describes functional assessment.

Managing Chronic Pain

Planning: Expected Outcomes

The patient with OA is expected to have pain control that is acceptable to the patient (e.g., at a 3 on a pain intensity scale of 0 to 10).

Interventions

Optimal management of patients with OA requires drug therapy and nonpharmacologic measures. If these measures are ineffective, surgery may be performed to reduce pain (Zhang et al., 2008). Perform a pain assessment before and after implementing interventions.

Nonsurgical Management

Management of chronic joint pain is difficult for both the patient and the health care professional. A combination of modalities is often used, including analgesics, rest, positioning, thermal modalities, weight control, and integrative therapies. Chapter 5 elaborates on methods of pain control for chronic pain.

Drug Therapy

The purpose of drug therapy is to reduce pain caused by cartilage destruction, muscle spasm, and/or secondary joint inflammation. The American Pain Society recommends regular acetaminophen (Tylenol, Atasol ) as the primary drug of choice because OA is not a primary anti-inflammatory disorder.

Nursing Safety Priority

Drug Alert

Patients are at risk for liver damage if they take more than 4000 mg daily of acetaminophen, have alcoholism, or have liver disease. Older adults are particularly at risk because of normal changes of aging, such as slowed excretion of drug metabolites. Remind patients to read the labels of over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription drugs that could contain acetaminophen before taking them. Teach them that their liver enzyme levels will be monitored while taking this drug.

Topical drug applications may help with temporary relief of pain. Prescription lidocaine 5% patches (Lidoderm) have been approved by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) for postherpetic neuralgia (nerve pain) but may also relieve joint pain (especially the knee) for some patients. Teach the patient to apply the patch on clean, intact skin for 12 hours each day. Up to three patches may be applied to painful joints at one time. Remind him or her that Lidoderm can cause skin irritation. Teach the patient that the lidocaine patch is contraindicated in those on class I antidysrhythmics. Topical salicylates, such as OTC Aspercreme patch, gel, or cream, are also useful for some patients as a temporary pain reliever, especially for knee pain.

If acetaminophen or topical agents do not relieve pain, the analgesic drug class of choice may be nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) if the patient can tolerate them (see Chart 20-9 later in this chapter). Before beginning NSAID therapy, baseline laboratory information is obtained, including a complete blood count (CBC) and kidney and liver function tests. Celecoxib (Celebrex), a COX-2 inhibitor, is usually the first choice unless the patient has hypertension, renal disease, or cardiovascular disease.

Nursing Safety Priority

Drug Alert

All of the COX-2 inhibiting drugs are thought to cause cardiovascular disease, such as myocardial infarction, and renal problems. All of these drugs may be unavailable at some time in the future. Older NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, can cause severe GI side effects, bleeding, and acute renal failure. Teach your patient about adverse effects from NSAIDs and the need to report them to his or her health care provider. Examples include having dark, tarry stools; shortness of breath; and frequent dyspepsia (indigestion).

For temporary relief of pain in a single joint, the health care provider may inject an individual joint with cortisone. Patients may have the same joint injected up to four times a year, or once every 3 months. Frequently injected joints include the knee, base of the thumb, shoulder, and trochanteric bursa, which people often call the hip.

Other agents, such as hyaluronate (Hyalgan) and hylan GF 20 (Synvisc), are specific injections for knee and hip pain associated with OA. These synthetic joint fluid implants replace or supplement the body’s natural hyaluronic acid, which is broken down by inflammation and aging.

Muscle relaxants, such as cyclobenzaprine hydrochloride (Flexeril), are sometimes given for painful muscle spasms, especially those occurring in the back from OA of the vertebral column. These drugs should be used with caution in older adults because they can cause acute confusion. Remind the patient not to drive or operate dangerous machinery when taking muscle relaxants.

Nonpharmacologic Interventions

In addition to analgesics, many nonpharmacologic measures can be used for patients with OA, such as rest balanced with exercise, joint positioning, heat or cold applications, weight control, and a variety of complementary and alternative therapies. Several types of rest are used to treat patients with OA:

• Local rest involves immobilizing any unstable joint, most often the knee, with a brace or splint. Knee braces improve balance, prevent falls, and decrease pain. If needed, the patient should use an ambulatory aid, such as a cane, to decrease stress on weight-bearing joints. The cane should be used on the strongest side of the body. Collaborate with the physical therapist (PT) to fit the patient for the appropriate device and explain its use.

• Systemic rest refers to immobilizing the entire body, such as during a nap. Teach the patient about the importance of sleeping about 8 to 10 hours and, if possible, resting an additional 1 to 2 hours each day.

• Psychological rest is equally important because it allows relief from the daily stresses that can enhance pain.

Teach the patient to position joints in their functional position. For example, when in a supine position (recumbent), he or she should use a small pillow under the head or neck but avoid the use of other pillows. The use of large pillows under the knees or head may result in flexion contractures. If needed, the legs may be elevated 8 to 12 inches (20 to 30 cm) to reduce back discomfort. Remind him or her to use proper posture when standing and sitting to reduce undue strain on the vertebral column. Teach the patient to wear supportive shoes; foot insoles may be helpful to relieve pressure on painful metatarsal joints. Collaborate with the PT to plan a program for muscle-strengthening exercises to better support the joints.

Most patients apply heat or cold for temporary relief of pain, but not all patients find these modalities effective. Heat may help decrease the muscle tension around the tender joint and thereby decrease pain. Suggest hot showers and baths, hot packs or compresses, and moist heating pads. Regardless of treatment, teach him or her to check that the heat source is not too heavy or so hot that it causes burns. A temperature just above body temperature is adequate to promote comfort.

If needed, collaborate with the PT to provide special heat treatments, such as paraffin dips, diathermy (using electrical current), and ultrasonography (using sound waves). A 15- to 20-minute application usually is sufficient to temporarily reduce pain, spasm, and stiffness. Cold packs or gels that feel hot and cold at the same time may also be used.

Cold therapy has limited use for most patients in controlling pain. Cold works by numbing nerve endings and decreasing secondary joint inflammation, if present.

Nursing Safety Priority

Action Alert

Teach the patient to use ice packs that are not too heavy. Do not place them directly on skin; instead, wrap them in a towel or soft cloth.

There is no one food that causes or cures arthritis. Instead, a well-balanced diet is recommended. Gradual weight loss for obese patients may lessen the stress on weight-bearing joints, decrease pain, and perhaps slow joint degeneration. If needed, collaborate with the registered dietitian to provide more in-depth teaching and meal planning or make referrals to community resources.

Complementary and Alternative Therapies

A variety of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) therapies, especially acupuncture, have been effective for some patients (see Chapter 2). Topical capsaicin products may also be used. This expensive OTC drug may work by blocking substance P, a neurotransmitter for pain. Tell the patient to expect a burning sensation for a short time after applying capsaicin. Recommend the use of plastic gloves for application. To prevent burning of eyes or other body areas, wash hands immediately after applying the substance.

Dietary supplements may complement traditional drug therapies. Glucosamine and chondroitin are widely used and are the most effective nonprescription supplements taken to decrease pain and improve functional ability (Zhang et al., 2008). These natural products are found in and around bone cartilage for repair and maintenance. Glucosamine may decrease inflammation, and chondroitin may play a role in strengthening cartilage. These supplements may be used topically or taken in oral form. If no improvement is evident in 6 months of use, they should be discontinued (Zhang et al., 2008). Chart 20-1 summarizes what you should teach your patients about glucosamine, with or without chondroitin.

Chart 20-1 Patient and Family Education

Preparing for Self-Management: Considerations for Taking Glucosamine Supplements

• Tell your health care provider if you decide to take glucosamine.

• Do not take glucosamine if you have hypertension.

• Do not take glucosamine if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

• Monitor for bleeding if you take chondroitin with glucosamine or chondroitin alone if you are on anticoagulant therapy.

• If diabetic, monitor your blood glucose levels carefully because taking glucosamine for a prolonged time can increase them.

• Be aware that glucosamine can cause adverse effects such as a rash; GI disturbances, especially diarrhea; drowsiness; and headache.

• Be sure to take the recommended dosage based on your weight.

• Read drug labels to ensure that you do not take too much glucosamine for your weight; some drug names may not indicate they contain glucosamine (e.g., Bioflex, Arth-X Plus, Nutri-Joint).

Surgical Management

Surgery may be indicated when conservative measures no longer provide pain control, when mobility becomes so restricted that the patient cannot participate in activities he or she enjoys, and when he or she cannot maintain the desired quality of life. The most common surgical procedure performed for older adults with OA is total joint arthroplasty (TJA) (surgical creation of a joint), also known as total joint replacement (TJR). Almost any synovial joint of the body can be replaced with a prosthetic system that consists of at least two parts, one for each joint surface. TJAs are expected to increase exponentially as baby boomers age over the next 20 years.

A less invasive procedure using arthroscopy may be used to remove damaged cartilage (see Chapter 52). An osteotomy (bone resection) may be performed to correct joint deformity, but this procedure is done most commonly for younger adults (Zhang et al., 2008).

Decision-Making Challenge

Patient-Centered Care; Evidence-Based Practice

A 60-year-old woman is admitted for an open reduction/internal fixation (ORIF) of her right ankle. After surgery, she will need to use crutches with no weight bearing on her affected leg for 4 to 6 weeks. When you are taking an admission history, she tells you that she has OA in her knees, feet, hands, and cervical spine. She takes ibuprofen when needed with some pain relief.

During her physical assessment, you note that the patient has multiple Heberden’s and Bouchard’s nodes on both hands. She has a joint effusion in her right third PIP, and she is right-handed.

1. What additional physical assessment do you need to perform to determine her level of functioning?

2. What other evidence-based interventions for OA pain might you recommend?

3. How might this patient’s OA affect her ability to use crutches after surgery?

4. What health teaching is needed for this patient to help manage her OA and use crutches while her ankle heals?

Indications for Total Joint Arthroplasty

Total joint arthroplasty is a procedure used most often to manage the pain of OA and to improve mobility, although other conditions causing cartilage destruction may require the surgery. These disorders include RA, congenital anomalies, trauma, and osteonecrosis. Osteonecrosis is bony necrosis secondary to lack of blood flow, usually from trauma or chronic steroid therapy. Hip and knee joints are most commonly replaced, but finger and wrist joint, elbow, shoulder, toe joint, and ankle replacements have been improved in the past 15 years.

Contraindications to Total Joint Arthroplasty

The contraindications for TJA are active infection anywhere in the body, advanced osteoporosis, and rapidly progressive inflammation. An infection elsewhere in the body or from the joint being replaced can result in an infected TJA and subsequent prosthetic failure. Therefore if a patient has a urinary tract infection, for example, the physician treats the infection before surgery. Advanced osteoporosis can cause bone shattering during insertion of the prosthetic device. Severe medical problems, such as uncontrolled diabetes or hypertension, put the patient at risk for major postoperative complications and possible death.

As a group, TJAs are very successful. Many patients who have lived with chronic, unbearable pain for years and could not function independently at home or in the workplace no longer experience pain in the diseased joint. The pain relief and psychological benefit often outweigh the perioperative risks and costs, but the surgeon and patient must make that decision. When the patient is older than 85 years, this decision may become an ethical issue in addition to a physical risk and cost-versus-benefit decision.

Total Hip Arthroplasty

The number of total hip arthroplasty (THA) procedures (also known as total hip replacement [THR]) has steadily increased over the past 30 years. The first time a patient receives any total joint arthroplasty, it is referred to as primary arthroplasty. If the implant loosens, revision arthroplasty may be performed. Availability of improved joint implant materials and better custom design features allow longer life of a replaced hip. Although patients of any age can undergo THR, the procedure is performed most often in those older than 60 years. The special needs and normal physiologic changes of older adults often complicate the perioperative period and may result in additional postoperative complications.

Preoperative Care

As with any procedure, preoperative care begins with assessing the patient’s level of understanding about the surgery and his or her ability to participate in the postoperative plan of care. The surgeon explains the procedure and postoperative expectations (including possible complications) during the office visit, but this patient education may have occurred weeks or months before the scheduled surgery. Some patients may not know what questions to ask or may forget the important information that was taught. Information may be provided in a notebook or DVD format that the patient can take home to review and share with family. This is particularly useful to patients with poor reading skills or poor memory. Written materials or other media provided in the patient’s language appropriate for the patient’s educational level are essential.

An interdisciplinary plan of care that outlines expectations during preadmission, hospitalization, and posthospitalization phases of care should be reviewed with the patient and family or significant other. Thomas and Sethares (2008) investigated the effects of preoperative interdisciplinary patient education for patients having total hip or knee arthroplasty using a large quasi-experimental design. The researchers found that postoperative patients in the intervention group had a higher knowledge level than those patients who did not receive the structured preoperative education. A study by Almada and Archer (2009) described the positive outcomes for joint arthroplasty patients who were visited by an RN before and after surgery. Part of both visits included patient and family/caregiver education.

In some hospitals or orthopedic office practices, the physical therapist (PT) may have the patient practice transfers, positioning, and ambulation. An occupational therapist (OT) may partner with the PT to assist in exercises or learning to ambulate with an assistive device, such as crutches or a walker. In a systematic review of three available studies, Barbay (2009) found that preoperative exercises for patients having hip or knee arthroplasty had some benefits in improving postoperative outcomes, but the results were inconclusive.

The OT may also help obtain assistive/adaptive equipment that will be needed after surgery. The cost of some items, such as an elevated toilet seat, is covered by Medicare and other insurers because they are essential to prevent hip dislocation. Other helpful equipment may not be paid for by third-party payers and can be purchased at local pharmacies or medical supply stores, based on the patient’s specific needs. Examples include:

• Shower chair

• Handheld shower

• Long-handled sponge for bathing

• Reacher, grabber, or dressing stick

• Safety bars

All patients are also told to visit a dentist and have any necessary dental procedures done before surgery. After surgery, he or she must take extreme care not to acquire an infection that could migrate to the surgical area and cause prosthetic failure. Remind the patient to tell any future health care provider that he or she has had a THA.

In addition to usual preoperative laboratory tests, the surgeon may ask the patient with RA to have a cervical spine x-ray if he or she is having general anesthesia. Those with RA often have cervical spine disease that can lead to subluxation during intubation. Hip x-rays, computed tomography (CT) scan, and/or MRI may be done to assess the operative joint and surrounding soft tissues.

Because venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a serious postoperative complication, especially for hip surgery, the patient’s risk factors for clotting problems are assessed, including history of previous clotting, obesity, smoking, and advanced age. Drugs that increase the risks for clotting and bleeding, such as NSAIDs, vitamins C and E, and hormone replacement therapy (HRT), are discontinued about a week before surgery.

Patients are also assessed for the need for possible blood transfusion after surgery. For patients who are at risk for postoperative anemia, one or more blood transfusions may be needed. Autologous (patient’s own) or banked blood can be used. If desired, the patient may donate blood several weeks before surgery to be used after surgery. This pre-deposit autologous blood donation is a safe and cost-effective blood replacement alternative for those who are undergoing elective surgeries. It also decreases the risk for blood transfusion reactions.

For some patients, the surgeon may prescribe several weeks of epoetin alfa (Epogen, Procrit, Eprex ) with or without iron to prevent anemia that can occur after hip or knee replacement. Epoetin alfa is recombinant human erythropoietin, a substance that is essential for developing red blood cells. This drug is particularly useful for older adults, who frequently have mild anemia before surgery.

Remind patients that they will likely be asked to take a shower with special antiseptic soap the night before surgery to decrease bacteria that could cause infection after surgery. Tell them to wear clean nightwear after their shower and sleep on clean linen. Review which drugs are safe to take or necessary the morning of the operation, such as antihypertensives, and which ones should be avoided. Medication should be taken with a very small amount of water.

Operative Procedures

The anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist places the patient under general or neuroaxial (epidural/spinal) anesthesia for lower extremity surgery. Neuroaxial induction reduces blood loss and the incidence of deep vein thrombosis. Intraoperative blood loss with hypotensive neuroaxial anesthesia is usually less than that with general anesthesia, thereby decreasing the need for postoperative blood transfusions.

Several types of incisions for hip replacement may be used. The more traditional 8-inch (20-cm) incision is usually longitudinal on the anterolateral thigh. The anterolateral approach results in more damage to muscle but less risk for dislocation. A posterior incision, posterolateral on the thigh and into the buttock, may be used to preserve muscle but may increase the risk for dislocation and sciatic nerve injury.

Some patients are candidates for minimally invasive surgery (MIS) using a smaller incision with special instruments to reduce muscle cutting. This newer technique cannot be used for patients who are obese or those with osteoporosis. It is done only for primary THAs, not for revision surgeries. Like those of any MIS, the benefits of minimally invasive THA are decreased soft tissue damage and postoperative pain. Patients often have a shorter hospital stay and quicker recovery. They are generally satisfied with the cosmetic appearance of the incision because there is less scarring. Postoperative complications are not as common in patients having minimally invasive (“mini”) hip replacements when compared with those having the traditional technique.

Regardless of procedure type, two components are used in the THA—the acetabular component and the femoral component (Fig. 20-2). A non-cemented prosthesis is most often used. Bone surfaces are smoothed as they are prepared to receive the artificial components. The non-cemented components are press-fitted into the prepared bone. The acetabular cup may be placed using computer assistance. If the prosthesis is cemented, polymethyl methacrylate (an acrylic fixating substance) is used. A closed wound drainage system may be placed in the wound before the surgeon closes the incision.

FIG. 20-2 A, Two major components of total hip arthroplasty. B, X-ray showing the components in place.

Considerations of a non-cemented prosthesis include protection of weight-bearing status to allow bone to grow into the prosthesis and decreased problems with loosening of the prosthesis. With a cemented prosthesis, cement can fracture or deteriorate over time, leading to loosening of the prosthesis, which causes pain and can lead to the need for a revision arthroplasty. In revision arthroplasty, the old prosthesis is removed and new components are replaced. Bone graft may be placed if bone loss is significant. Outcomes from revision arthroplasty may not be as positive as with primary arthroplasty.

Postoperative Care

In addition to providing the routine postoperative care discussed in Chapter 18, assess for and help prevent possible postoperative complications. Table 20-2 summarizes these complications, including nursing measures for prevention, assessment, and intervention. Chart 20-2 highlights special concerns for the care of older adults in the postoperative period. Collaborate with your patient and his or her family to become safety partners to keep the patient free from harm, including complications, such as:

• Hip dislocation

• Venous thromboembolism (VTE)

• Infection

• Anemia

• Neurovascular compromise

TABLE 20-2 NURSING INTERVENTIONS TO PREVENT COMPLICATIONS OF TOTAL JOINT ARTHROPLASTY

COMPLICATION	PREVENTION/INTERVENTION
Dislocation	Position correctly. For hip, keep leg slightly abducted. For hip, prevent hip flexion beyond 90 degrees. Assess for pain, rotation, and extremity shortening. Report immediately to physician.
Infection	Use aseptic technique for wound care and emptying of drains. Wash hands thoroughly when caring for patient. Culture drainage fluid, if change. Monitor temperature. Report excessive inflammation or drainage to physician.
Venous thromboembolism	Have patient wear elastic stockings and/or sequential compression device. Teach leg exercises to patient. Encourage fluid intake. Observe for signs of thrombosis (redness, swelling, or pain). Observe patient for changes in mental status. Administer anticoagulant as prescribed. Do not massage legs. Do not use knee gatch on bed.
Hypotension, bleeding, or infection	Take vital signs at least every 4 hours. Observe patient for bleeding. Report excessively low blood pressure or bleeding to physician.

Chart 20-2 Nursing Focus on the Older Adult

Postoperative Care of the Older Adult with a Total Hip Arthroplasty

• Use an abduction pillow or splint to prevent adduction after surgery if the patient is very restless or has an altered mental state.

• Keep the patient’s heels off the bed to prevent pressure ulcers.

• Do not rely on fever as a sign of infection; older patients often have infection without fever. Decreasing mental status typically occurs when the patient has an infection.

• When assisting the patient out of bed, move him or her slowly to prevent orthostatic (postural) hypotension.

• Encourage the patient to deep breathe and cough and to use the incentive spirometer every 2 hours to prevent atelectasis and pneumonia.

• As soon as permitted, get the patient out of bed to prevent complications of immobility.

• Anticipate the patient’s need for pain medication, especially if he or she cannot verbalize the need for pain control.

• Expect a temporary change in mental state immediately after surgery as a result of the anesthetic and unfamiliar sensory stimuli. Reorient the patient frequently.

Preventing Hip Dislocation

A major complication of THA is subluxation (partial dislocation) or total dislocation.

Nursing Safety Priority

Action Alert

Teach patients to maintain correct positioning at all times. When the patient returns from the postanesthesia care unit (PACU), place him or her in a supine position with the head slightly elevated. Place a pillow between the patient’s legs to prevent adduction beyond the midline of the body.

In some hospitals, abduction devices with straps are placed on patients who are restless or cannot follow instructions, especially older adults with delirium or dementia. One or two regular bed pillows are used in most cases to remind patients to keep their legs abducted. For devices with straps, be sure to loosen the straps every 2 hours and check the patient’s skin for irritation or breakdown.

Place and support the affected leg in neutral rotation. Keep the patient’s heels off the bed to prevent skin breakdown, particularly older adults. The procedure for postoperative turning is controversial and specified by agency policy or surgeon preference. In most cases, you are safe to turn the patient if the pillow is in place. Some surgeons allow only turning directly onto one side or the other, depending on the surgical approach.

Teach the patient and family about other precautions to prevent dislocation as outlined in Chart 20-3. In addition to preventing adduction, remind them that the patient should avoid flexing the hips more than 90 degrees at all times. Use diagrams or demonstrate correct positioning to help reinforce this information before the patient gets out of bed (Fig. 20-3).

Chart 20-3 Patient and Family Education

Preparing for Self-Management: Care of Patients with Total Hip Arthroplasty After Hospital Discharge

Hip Precautions

• Do not sit or stand for prolonged periods.

• Do not cross your legs beyond the midline of your body.

• Do not bend your hips more than 90 degrees.

• Do not twist your body when standing.

• Use an ambulatory aid, such as a walker, when walking.

• Use assistive/adaptive devices for dressing, such as for putting on shoes and socks.

• Do not put more weight on your affected leg than allowed.

• Resume sexual intercourse as usual on the advice of your surgeon.

Pain Management

• Report increased hip pain to the physician immediately.

• Take oral analgesics as prescribed and only as needed.

• Do not overexert yourself; take frequent rests.

Incisional Care

• Inspect your hip incision every day for redness, heat, or drainage; if any of these are present, call your physician immediately.

• Cleanse your hip incision with a mild soap and water every day; be sure to dry it thoroughly.

Other Care

• Continue walking and performing the leg exercises as you learned in the hospital.

• Do not cross your legs to help prevent blood clots.

• Report pain, redness, or swelling in your legs to your physician immediately.

• Report chest pain or shortness of breath to your physician immediately.

• If you are taking an anticoagulant, follow the precautions learned in the hospital to prevent bleeding; avoid using a straight razor, avoid injuries, and report bleeding or excessive bruising to your surgeon immediately.

• Perform postoperative exercises as instructed, including straight leg raises, gluteal sets, ankle pumps, and “ham” sets.

FIG. 20-3 Correct and incorrect hip flexion after a total hip replacement.

Nursing Safety Priority

Critical Rescue

Observe for possible signs of hip dislocation, which include increased hip pain, shortening of the affected leg, and leg rotation. If any of these clinical manifestations occur, keep the patient in bed and notify the surgeon immediately!

If the hip is dislocated, the surgeon manipulates and relocates the affected hip after the patient receives moderate sedation. The hip is then immobilized by an abduction splint or other device until healing occurs—usually in about 6 weeks.

Preventing Venous Thromboembolism

The most potentially life-threatening complication after THA is venous thromboembolism (VTE), which includes deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). Older patients are especially at increased risk for VTE because of age and decreased circulation before surgery. Obese patients and those with a history of VTE are also at high risk for thrombi. Sequential compression devices and/or antiembolism stockings are typically applied.

Anticoagulants, such as warfarin (Coumadin, Warfilone ), subcutaneous low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH), or factor Xa inhibitors, help prevent VTE. Patients are usually on anticoagulants for 3 to 6 weeks after surgery, depending on the patient’s response and risk factors. During the past 20 years, the use of LMWHs has markedly increased for patients with total hip and knee replacements. Examples include enoxaparin (Lovenox), dalteparin (Fragmin), and tinzaparin (Innohep). These drugs work to inhibit factor Xa, which is a key component in the clotting process. Given in a low prophylactic dose based on the patient’s weight, they do not significantly affect prothrombin time (PT) or activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT).

Although not as commonly seen with these drugs when compared with unfractionated heparin (UFH), thrombocytopenia (decreased platelets) can occur. Therefore monitor the patient’s complete blood count and platelet count per agency policy. Assess for bleeding, including occult blood in stool and bruising. Protamine sulfate can be given as an antidote for all heparins; however, it is not as effective for LMWH when compared with UFH. Be especially alert for signs and symptoms of neurologic dysfunction because spinal and epidural hematomas can occur in patients who received neuroaxial anesthesia.

Fondaparinux (Arixtra), a factor Xa inhibiting agent, may also be prescribed for patients undergoing hip and knee arthroplasty. Its action is similar to that of LMWHs and has no effect on coagulation tests. Like other drugs, however, the patient is at risk for bleeding. No antidote exists at this time for fondaparinux. Like LMWHs, Arixtra is given for several days with an overlap while anticoagulants begin to work. A complete discussion of nursing care associated with patients taking anticoagulants and VTE is found in Chapter 38. The Joint Commission’s VTE Core Measures are also discussed in that chapter.

Early ambulation and exercise help prevent VTE. Teach the patient about leg exercises, which should begin in the immediate postoperative period and continue through the rehabilitation period. These exercises include plantar flexion and dorsiflexion (heel pumping), circumduction (circles) of the feet, gluteal and quadriceps muscle setting, and straight-leg raises (SLRs). Teach the patient to perform gluteal exercises by pushing the heels into the bed and achieve quadriceps-setting exercises (“quad sets”) by straightening the legs and pushing the back of the knees into the bed. In addition to preventing clots, these exercises improve muscle tone, which helps restore the function of the extremity.

Preventing Infection

Another potential complication of hip replacement is infection. Infection can occur during hospitalization or months or years later. Most infections are caused by contamination during surgery.

Monitor the surgical incision and vital signs carefully—every 4 hours for the first 24 hours and every 8 to 12 hours thereafter. Observe for signs of infection, such as an elevated temperature and excessive or foul-smelling drainage from the incision. An older patient may not have a fever with infection but, instead, may experience an altered mental state. If you suspect infection, obtain a sample of any drainage for culture and sensitivity to determine the offending organisms and the antibiotics that may be needed for treatment.

Assessing for Bleeding and Managing Anemia

Observe the surgical hip dressing for bleeding or other type of drainage at least every 4 hours or when vital signs are taken. Empty and measure the bloody fluid in the surgical drain(s) every shift. The total amount of drainage is usually less than 50 mL/8 hr. Patients who have the minimally invasive procedure may not have a drain. The surgeon usually removes the drains and operative dressing 24 to 48 hours after surgery. Take special care when removing tape from the skin to prevent tape burns as the surgical dressing is changed, especially for older adults.

The surgeon also requests periodic hemoglobin and hematocrit (H&H) tests to assess for anemia. Although some patients receive several units of blood during surgery, the H&H levels may continue to fall; in this case, additional blood is given 1 to 2 days after surgery. Blood pressure may be lower than usual because of blood loss during surgery.

Assessing for Neurovascular Compromise

As with other musculoskeletal surgery, monitor neurovascular assessments frequently for a possible compromise in circulation to the affected distal extremity.

Nursing Safety Priority

Action Alert

Check and document color, temperature, distal pulses, capillary refill, movement, and sensation. Remember to compare the operative leg with the nonoperative leg. These assessments are performed at the same time the vital signs are checked. Report any changes in neurovascular assessment to the surgeon, and carefully monitor for changes. Early detection of changes in neurovascular status can prevent permanent tissue damage.

In addition to implementing interventions to prevent potential postoperative complications and monitoring for early signs of complications, the interdisciplinary team plans care to manage pain, improve mobility and activity, and promote self-management.

Nclex Examination Challenge

Physiological Integrity

An older woman had a left total hip arthroplasty yesterday afternoon. Which precautions will the nurse teach before helping the client transfer from the bed to the chair? Select all that apply.

A. “Stand on your left leg and pivot to the chair.”

B. “Do not hyperflex your hips when sitting.”

C. “Cross your legs to be more comfortable.”

D. “Avoid twisting your body when moving.”

E. “Use your cane to help move into the chair.”

Managing Pain

Although hip arthroplasty is performed to relieve joint pain, patients experience pain related to the surgical procedure. Many state that their pain is different and less severe than before surgery. Immediate pain control is typically achieved by extended-release epidural morphine (EREM) or patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) with morphine or another opioid. A study by Smith-Miller et al. (2009) found that there was no difference in pain control when these two methods were compared. Chapter 5 contains information on the nursing care associated with these acute pain modalities. Keep in mind that the patient may also receive other analgesics or anti-inflammatory drugs for chronic arthritic pain in other joints.

Regardless of the pain management method used, most patients do not require parenteral analgesics after the first day. Oral opioids, such as oxycodone plus acetaminophen (Percocet, Tylox), are then commonly prescribed until the pain can be controlled by NSAIDs such as ketorolac (Toradol, Acular) or ibuprofen (Motrin, Apo-Ibuprofen ).

Nonpharmacologic methods for acute and chronic pain control can also be used to decrease the amount of drug therapy used (see Chapter 5). A study by Thomas and Sethares (2010) found that guided imagery can be helpful in controlling pain in patients with total joint arthroplasty.

Promoting Mobility and Activity

Depending on the time of day that the surgery is performed, the patient with a THA usually gets out of bed the night of surgery to prevent complications (e.g., atelectasis, pneumonia), especially in older adults.

Nursing Safety Priority

Action Alert

Be sure to assist the patient the first time he or she gets out of bed to prevent falls and observe for dizziness. When getting the patient out of bed, stand on the same side of the bed as the affected leg. After the patient sits on the side of the bed, remind him or her to stand on the unaffected leg and pivot to the chair with guidance. Do not lift the patient!

Remind the patient to avoid flexing the hips beyond 90 degrees as discussed earlier (see Fig. 20-3). Raised toilet seats and reclining chairs help prevent hyperflexion of the replaced hip joint. Be sure to teach the patient to also avoid twisting the body or crossing his or her legs to prevent hip dislocation.

The surgeon, type of prosthesis, and surgical procedure determine the amount of weight bearing that can be applied to the affected leg. A patient with a cemented implant is usually allowed immediate partial weight bearing (PWB) and progresses to full weight bearing (FWB). Typically, only “toe-touch” or minimal weight bearing is permitted for patients with uncemented prostheses. When x-ray evidence of bony ingrowth can be seen, the patient can progress to PWB and then to FWB.

In collaboration with the physical therapist (PT), teach the patient how to follow weight-bearing restrictions. Most patients use a walker (may be a rolling walker), but younger adults may use crutches. They are usually advanced to a single cane or crutch if they can walk without a severe limp 4 to 6 weeks after surgery. When the limp disappears, they no longer need an ambulatory/assistive device and may be permitted to sit in chairs of normal height, use regular toilets, and drive a car.

Promoting Self-Management

The hospital’s occupational therapy department often supplies assistive/adaptive devices to help with ADLs, especially for those having traditional surgery. Particularly important are devices designed for reaching to prevent patients from bending or stooping and flexing the hips more than 90 degrees. Extended handles on shoehorns and dressing sticks may be very useful to achieve ADL independence. Third-party payers may or may not pay for these devices, depending on the patient’s status.

For those who have traditional surgery, the length of stay in the acute care hospital is typically 3 days, but older adults or those experiencing postoperative complications may stay longer. Those who have the minimally invasive THA are discharged on the second postoperative day or the day of surgery (23-hour stay). Those patients are discharged to home on crutches to practice their own rehabilitative exercises. Most of them are able to return to work in 2 weeks. For that reason, some hospitals have started Rapid Recovery Hip Replacement programs for patients who are candidates for MIS.

Discharge for patients having traditional surgery may be to the home, a rehabilitation unit, a transitional care unit, or a skilled unit or long-term care facility for continued rehabilitation before discharge to home. The interdisciplinary team provides written instructions for posthospital care and reviews them with patients and their family members (see Chart 20-3). Be sure to provide a copy of these instructions for the patient.

Acute rehabilitation usually takes 1 to 2 weeks or longer, depending on the patient’s age and tolerance and the type of prosthesis used. However, it often takes 6 weeks or longer for complete recovery. Some patients who are discharged to their home are able to attend physical therapy sessions in an office or ambulatory care setting. Others have no means or cannot use community resources and need physical therapy in the home, depending on their health insurance coverage. Collaborate with the case manager to determine which option is best for your patient.