Orthopaedic Nurse Navigator
An orthopaedic nurse navigator is a nurse who assists the patient from initial diagnosis through the entire treatment process and treatment process. In this role, the nurse navigator will:
- Facilitate Total Joint Education Program
- Identify community resources for patients and family
- Act as an advocate throughout treatment
- Review at-home needs for after surgery
- Support patients during the entire recovery process
Any questions please contact:
Carley Lutz,
Orthopaedic Nurse Navigator, RN, BSN
(509) 760-3117
(509) 765-5606 ext. 1187
Office Hours:
Monday-Friday 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Patient Education Checklists
- Inform your surgeon’s office if you develop skin infections, open sores or irritations around the intended surgical site before surgery
- Avoid shaving the surgical sites for seven days before surgery
- No pedicures/manicures before surgery
- “Nose to Toes” skin prep will be employed to optimize skin for surgery
- Avoid all dental work that is non–emergent (including cleaning) for 12 weeks prior to and 12 weeks after surgery.
- Plan ahead! Let your surgeon’s office know ASAP if you are requiring urgent/emergent dental work.
- Stop smoking/use of nicotine products
- Limit alcohol intake
- Stop using cannabis products (marijuana) for 30 days prior to anesthesia
- Continued use of cannabis may make it harder to control your pain and cause anxiety/agitation/nausea/vomiting
- Blood sugar control is very important especially prior to surgery
- Ideal A1C is <7.5
- This can help reduce the risk of infection and other complications
- Stress can cause fluctuations in hormones that affect blood glucose levels
- Healthy eating and proper nutrition before your surgery aids in the healing process.
- Drink plenty of fluids and stay hydrated
- Try to eat a balanced diet that is rich in:
- Fiber- Corn, peas, beans, whole-wheat, pasta, breads, broccoli and almonds
- Calcium- Milk, cheese, dark leafy greens and fortified cereal
- Protein- Eggs, almonds, lean meats, poultry, lentils, Greek yogurt, fish
- Arrange for assistance at home (Support person/caregiver)
- You will want someone to be home with you for up to five days after surgery
- Transportation:
- Plan ahead and arrange for a ride home after your surgery.
- Make sure vehicle is easy to get into and out of (no climbing/steps) and has adequate leg room
- Home assistive devices:
- Obtain your FRONT-WHEELED WALKER ahead of time, and PLEASE BRING IT WITH YOU TO THE HOSPITAL FOR SURGERY.
A pre-op nurse will call to inform you regarding:
- Time of arrival
- Time of surgery
- Medications to take the morning of with a sip of water
- Last time you are able to eat and drink
Anesthesiology
Orthopaedics
Orthopaedics
Orthopaedics
Physical Therapy
The skilled physical therapy professionals at Samaritan provide quality inpatient and outpatient rehabilitative care. They specialize in evaluating and treating conditions, such as pre- and post-surgical care; pain in the back, neck, and extremities; strains and sprains; injuries related to work or sports; neurological or orthopaedic injuries; and more.
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