Patient experience in fast-track hip and knee arthroplasty--a qualitative study

To explore the lived experience of patients in fast-track primary unilateral total hip and knee arthroplasty from the first visit at the outpatient clinic until discharge.

Fast-track has resulted in increased effectiveness, including faster recovery and shorter length of stay to about two days after hip and knee arthroplasty. However, the patient perspective in fast-track with a median length of stay of less than three days has been less investigated.

A qualitative design.

A phenomenological-hermeneutic approach was used, inspired by Paul Ricoeur's theory of narrative and interpretation. Eight patients were included. Semi-structured interviews and participant observation were performed.

Three themes emerged: dealing with pain; feelings of confidence or uncertainty - the meaning of information; and readiness for discharge. Generally, the patients were resistant to taking analgesics and found it difficult to find out when to take supplementary analgesics; therefore, nursing staff needed enough expertise to take responsibility. Factors that increased patients' confidence: information about fast-track, meeting staff before admission and involving relatives. In contrast, incorrect or conflicting information and a lack of respect for privacy led to uncertainty. In preparing for early discharge, sufficient pain management, feeling well-rested and optimal use of time during hospitalisation were important.

The study shows the importance of dealing with pain and getting the right information and support to have confidence in the fast-track programme, to be ready for discharge and to manage postoperatively at home.

In fast-track focusing on early discharge, there is an increased need for evidence-based nursing practice, including a qualified judgement of what is best for the patient in certain situations. The knowledge should be gleaned from: research; the patients' expertise, understanding and situation; and nurses' knowledge, skills and experience.