Date of Award

2014

Document Type

Open Access Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts in Nursing (MAN)

Department

Nursing

First Advisor

Joyce P. Miller DNP,RN

Abstract

In 2009 a large Midwestern healthcare institution introduced preoperative education classes for orthopedic patients undergoing joint replacement surgery to better prepare them for surgery and promote a timely discharge from the hospital. According to literature findings, preoperative patient education decreases patient anxiety, improves pain control, and decreases length of stay in the hospital. While length of stay for joint replacement patients within this healthcare instifution decreased, it was difficult to pinpoint the effect of the educational classes due to other simultaneous changes in postoperative orthopedic care, such as earlier mobilization of patients. Through an analysis of class attendance, it was determined that the preoperative educational material should be more accessible for orthopedic patients to improve overall satisfaction and maximize the number of individuals who receive the education. An Internet-based patient education program was developed using concepts from Newman's Theory of Expanding Consciousness to help patients achieve a higher level of understanding regarding their preparation for surgery and recovery process. The development of an laternet-based education program will increase accessibility for patients and family members, promote improved comprehension of the educational material, and potentially reduce cost for the institution.

Identifier

SC 11.MAN.2014.Joachim.H

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