Communication Tips
As a conscientious caregiver, you want to be as prepared as possible when the inevitable questions arise about the patient and the procedure.
- Write down your questions. Be as clear and specific as possible
- Make a written list of medications the patient is taking and of the patient’s medical history, including surgeries and treatments not related to this surgery
- Be honest and thorough in talking with the doctor. Don’t be reluctant to talk about issues that you usually keep private
- Ask for clarification. If you don’t understand, don't be embarrassed to ask for further explanation, especially of medical terms
- Keep the doctor informed. Contact the surgeon if there are any complications from surgery, such as fever, redness, drainage, or bleeding around the wound site.
Some doctors set aside specific hours to take and return calls. Others ask that non-emergency calls be directed to a particular member of the healthcare team. If the printed information from the surgeon does not tell you how and when you can contact the surgeon or the healthcare team, contact the doctor and ask the following questions:
- What days is the office open, and for what hours?
- How are medical emergencies handled?
- Whom do I call after hours?
- When is the best time to reach the doctor?
- Who answers questions if the doctor is not available?
Keep in mind the law protects the privacy of every patient’s medical record, and healthcare providers work hard to maintain the confidentiality of the patient’s record. Check with the healthcare team well before the surgery to ensure that patient privacy guidelines are met, and to be sure that you comply with applicable regulations and policies.
Some doctors ask patients to designate someone as their caregiver, and hospitals also ask patients to identify a caregiver who can be given information by phone. While general information is available to a caregiver, unless otherwise directed by the patient, only the patient can receive test result information. Doctors will not leave test results on voicemail or answering machines either.
Communicating with Others
You can provide the best possible care for the patient by keeping all lines of communication open during their recovery from knee replacement surgery.
- Before contacting family and friends, find out what information the patient would like you to share with others
- Tell a trusted neighbor or two that you will be away, and ask the neighbors to keep an eye on your home
- Contact your employer as soon as you know you will need time off from your job