Patients' Perceptions of Preoperative Home-Based Occupational Therapy and/or Physiotherapy Interventions Prior to Total Hip Replacement

Abstract

This study focused on patients' accounts of perceptions and experience of preoperative home-based interventions to increase health professionals' understanding of what is important or not when supporting patients preparing for hip replacements. Method: A phenomenological approach helped to develop insights into what patients found useful or not about preoperative interventions, thus developing an understanding of the value of the service from patients' perspectives. Data were gathered from 10 participants, using semi-structured interviews. Analysis used a seven-step framework for phenomenological data analysis. Findings: Five main themes emerged: preoperative equipment use increases independence, progress and confidence; individual needs are better met through timely visits; competent therapist home intervention offers reassurance regarding surgery; knowing one's home environment is suitable increases confidence in planning hospital discharge after surgery; and levels of social support require preoperative assessment. The participants identified preoperative home visits as valuable in helping to prepare for surgery. Home visits can alleviate preoperative anxiety and may contribute to more streamlined discharge planning. Visits may help to cut the costs of erroneous equipment provision or last-minute equipment deliveries and decrease length of stay. Conclusion: This research offers clinicians and managers relevant insight into patients' perceptions of home-based services and could work alongside quantitative research findings to inform best practice within National Health Service resource restrictions.