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EMERGENCY S IGNS
Many symptoms that patient's feels might warrant an Emergency Room visit, actually can
be addressed by your surgeons' office. Call Early!!!!
Call your surgeon's office for:
Blood soaked dressing.
Pain that is getting worse
Pain or swelling in your calf or leg that is not related to your incision
Tenderness or redness in your calf
Fever of 100.4 F (38 C)or higher
Shaking chills
Swelling or redness at the incision site that is worsening
Fluid draining form the incision
Urgency or frequency with/ without urination
A feeling of looseness or instability in the joint
Life-Threatening Emergencies:
Chest pain, shortness of breath, difficulty speaking, unilateral facial drooping or
numbness CALL 9-1-1
Numbness, facial drop, difficulty with speech (call 9-1-1).
Chest pain or shortness of breath (Call 9-1-1).
ADDITIONAL SA FETY RE MINDERS ONCE YOU ARE HOME:
Doorways – Should be well lit. Use a ramp if unable to step over doorframe.
Floors – Have non-skid surfaces; use non-skid waxes and avoid deep pile carpets. Secure
or remove area rugs. Floors should be even, clean and dry. Keep electrical cords and
telephone lines along the wall.
Stairs and Hallways – Need adequate lighting and keep them clear. Give yourself enough
space to maneuver your equipment. Minimize clutter.
Bedroom – Have a light/flashlight within reach. Keep floor clean. Tuck the
sheets/comforter in.
Telephone – Keep telephone within reach or carry a cordless phone with you. Leave
your answering machine on when you go out of the house or are going to the bathroom.
Tell people who call you, to let the phone ring eight times before hanging up. Do not
rush to answer the phone.
