McLaren Regional Medical Center has taken its Joint Express Program to the next level by opening a special Unit completely dedicated to knee and hip replacement patients. This dedicated unit is comprised of:

• board certified orthopedic surgeons
• orthopedic residents
• physician assistants
•  nurses
• physical and occupational therapists.

Education is key to our patients' satisfactory outcomes, and it begins in the surgeon's office. One important topic covered is McLaren's Blood Conservation Program click here for more information. The next step in the process is the Joint Express Class. These group classes are held in the therapy gym on the Joint Express Unit prior to surgery. Patients are encouraged to bring a friend or family member with them who will be helping with their recovery. This comprehensive class covers all aspects regarding what a patient needs to know about their surgery and recovery. More education is given during the Pre-Admission Testing process at the hospital. Here nursing staff and orthopedic physician assistants help patients take the last steps needed to prepare for surgery.

The day of surgery, patients begin physical and occupational therapy right on the Joint Express Unit. Therapy takes place in group sessions, where encouragement from both staff and fellow patients fills the gym. All patient rooms on the Unit are private and each has a daybed for a friend or loved one to stay. An information board in each room lists the patient's surgeon, primary care physician, and nurse, as well as their fall risk, pain rating and therapy goals. When it is time to go home, anyone who cannot participate in outpatient therapy can be assisted by McLaren Visiting Nurse and Hospice which is available to provide in-home services.

The combination of a dedicated team of clinicians all working together on a dedicated unit means patients experience better coordination of care and quicker recoveries.

The design of the Unit is far from traditional. A bamboo patterned railing contrasts against dark wood wall units and flooring, accented with light wood and soft green paint. All patient rooms, as well as the therapy gym, have window views.

Other special features on the unit include:

• 13 Private Patient Rooms
• Spacious rooms, bathrooms and daybeds for guests
• Message boards in each patient's room for better caregiver communication
• Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeons
• Orthopedic Residency Program
• Dedicated Orthopedic Physician Assistants
• Dedicated Nursing and Therapy Staff
• A Team Approach to Care
• Quicker Recovery

Click here to take a tour of the unit