The Effect of Preoperative Information and Education in the Clinical Outcome of Total Hip Arthroplasty

The intervention will include oral and written education about the operation, nursing and active participation in self-care. The intervention will take place in 3 phases: One week before THA, one day before THA after patient admission and postoperatively, before patient discharge. After a rough description of the operation, the anatomy and functionality of the joint will be presented, underlining the necessity of the operation. Instructions for recognizing and managing potential complications will be given. Patients will be informed about the appropriate post-operative walking aids, walking style, sitting up techniques, standing-up techniques, lying down techniques and getting in and out of the car. There will be a demonstration of muscle strengthening exercises, isometric quadriceps and gluteal exercises, Patients will also be informed about the necessity of prophylactic postoperative antithrombotic and antibiotic treatment.

Patients will receive the standard preoperative care, which will not include formalized education beyond routine consent.