Effect of continuous functional rehabilitation training on rehabilitation of elderly patients after total hip arthroplasty

Objective To explore the effect of continuous functional rehabilitation nursing care on the rehabilitation of elderly patients after total hip arthroplasty. Methods 85 patients undergoing total hip arthroplasty in the community from January, 2015 to October, 2016 were divided into a control group (n=40), regularly re-visiting hospital after discharge, and an observation group, regularly having return visit at outpatient department after discharge and continuous functional rehabilitation nursing guidance. The Harris hip score before and after discharge, commandment of rehabilitation nursing knowledge, postoperative complications, and service satisfaction were compared between these two groups. Results There was no statistical difference the Harris hip score in between these two groups 2 weeks after operation (P>0.05); however, 4, 8, 16, and 24 weeks after operation, the Harris hip score were better in the observation group than in the control group, with statistical differences (P<0.05). 4 cases got postoperative dislocation in the control group and none in the observation group, with a statistical difference (P<0.05). The commandment of of rehabilitation nursing knowledge was significantly better in the observation group than in the control group (P<0.05). Conclusions Continuous functional rehabilitation training can promote postoperative rehabilitation training in elderly patients with total hip replacement and the recovery of hip function, reduce complications, and improve the quality of rehabilitation and quality of life. Key words: Continuous nursing care; Functional training; Total hip arthroplasty; Rehabilitation