“Parma Hospital already is recognized for its five-star orthopedic program,” says Pam Yusz, RN, Parma Hospital’s director of Surgical Services. “Joint Camp will further enhance our quality outcomes.”    

The program is not mandatory, but it is advised for all patients planning to have joint replacement surgery. The program, which involves the patient as an active participant in their recovery plan, consists of three sessions prior to surgery:

•  An educational presentation to cover what to expect before surgery and in the hospital. 
• A group meeting with other pre-op patients, led by a physical therapist. This session will cover exercises that will improve the patient’s recovery and assistive devices that can help the patient’s mobility. 
• A pre-admission visit just before surgery that involves lab and radiology testing and a physical examination.     

Joint Camp starts four to six weeks prior to surgery. Patients are encouraged to bring a support person, such as a family member or friend, who can serve as a coach during the preparation and recovery. Sessions are held each month on the first and third Wednesday and the second Saturday.  

Each patient in Joint Camp also benefits from the expertise of a team of professionals that includes surgeons, nurses, and physical and occupational therapists. In 2007, the nine highly trained orthopedic surgeons on the Medical Staff of Parma Community General Hospital performed over 500 total joint replacements.  

For more information on Joint Camp, call Janet Babinyecz, the clinical orthopedic nurse who coordinates the camp, at 440-743-4428.