Orthopaedic Nurse Navigators and Total Joint Arthroplasty Preoperative Optimization

Abstract

Diabetes and cardiovascular disease are some of the most common risk factors for complications after total joint arthroplasty (TJA). Preoperative optimization programs are dependent on nurse navigators for coordination of interventions that improve patients' health and surgical outcomes. This article uses information regarding the current practices for diabetes and cardiovascular disease management to provide recommendations for nurse navigators when managing these risk factors prior to TJA. We consulted nurse navigators and conducted a literature review to learn about strategies for addressing diabetes and cardiovascular disease in preoperative optimization programs. Nurse navigators can play a critical role in addressing these conditions by providing patient education and implementing preoperative optimization protocols that incorporate discussion regarding guidelines for diabetes and cardiovascular disease management prior to surgery. This article shares recommendations and resources for nurse navigators to help address diabetes and cardiovascular disease as part of preoperative optimization programs.