If you have been suffering from hip, knee or shoulder joint pain and have exhausted all conservative treatment, you may be eligible for joint replacement surgery. South Florida Baptist Hospital in Plant City has a dedicated orthopedic wing that is designed specifically for patients who will undergo these procedures.
Right from the beginning, patients have a dedicated team of nurses, surgeons and physical therapists who will make sure that their experience and outcome are the best. According to Dr. Scott Goldsmith, an orthopedic surgeon at South Florida Baptist Hospital, “We have a dedicated staff and protocol in place from the pre-operative stage through discharge. You are not going to find this hands on approach everywhere.”
Goldsmith added, “Such an approach helps minimize complications and allows for maximum efficiency of care.”
Patients undergo a comprehensive orientation class and meet with a physical therapist, a patient care coordinator, a perioperative nurse and a registrar to learn what to expect before, during and after their procedure. According to Dr. Goldsmith, “Ninety-eight percent of patients are discharged on the third day and appropriate placement, either at home or in a rehab facility, is made for each individual patient.”
Goldsmith added, “The care does not end with discharge from the hospital. The physicians and staff continue to follow up to ensure that the patient is receiving the best care possible.”
During their stay at South Florida Baptist Hospital, patients stay in one of 10 private rooms that are beautifully decorated and equipped with HD flat screen television, plantation shutters, pedestal sinks, and dimmable lights. In addition, each room has a fold out couch for overnight visitors. Finally, the rooms are designed to accommodate physical therapy equipment, so the therapist comes to the patient. Studies have shown that patients recover faster and more comfortably in their own specialized private room.
If you are wondering whether you are a candidate for a total joint replacement, South Florida Baptist offers a free online Orthopedic Risk Assessment on its Website at www.sjbhealth.org. Goldsmith will also offer a lecture on Wednesday, January 19 from 6-8 p.m. in the Community Conference Room at South Florida Baptist Hospital, located at 301 N. Alexander St. in Plant City.
For more information, please call 443-2091.
