Joint Camp

Total Joint Program – Joint Camp

Anyone undergoing their first total hip or total knee replacement at Adventist Health Specialty Bakersfield attends an educational session called Joint Camp the week prior to surgery. This free session is taught by our nurses who work with joint replacement patients and gives patients time to ask questions and better understand the process – from pre-surgery through to recovery.

Joint Camp is designed to educate patients undergoing a total hip or total knee replacement about what to expect before, during and after the procedure. In addition, patients will hear from the physical therapist on what to do pre and post procedure.
At Joint Camp, you will learn:

  • What to expect upon arrival at the hospital
  • What to expect before, during and after surgery
  • Anesthesia and pain control options during surgery
  • Therapy expectations before, during and after hospitalization
  • Pain management plans after discharge
  • Equipment needs

Joint Camp’s Buddy Program

Developed to provide additional information to the loved one – or buddy – of a joint replacement patient, the “buddy” participates in the patient’s care plan before and after surgery.

Anyone can be a buddy. The most important qualification is to be committed to understanding the patient’s needs before and after surgery. Buddies are encouraged to actively participate in the care plan by:

  • Attending all doctor’s appointments
  • Being present before and after surgery
  • Participating in physical therapy
  • Spending time in the hospital
  • Helping the patient remember instructions given by the healthcare team
  • Assisting with home care after discharge
  • Helping the patient remember the importance of asking for assistance to prevent falls

Joint Camp Outcomes

Studies have shown patients who attend a Joint Camp or “pre-hab” session have less anxiety about their surgery, they use less pain medication and go home sooner. Their rehab also goes more smoothly and they have fewer infections and other complications.

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