Abstract
Introduction: We undertook an audit study to find out patient perception of being seen by a nurse practitioner in the clinic for a follow up appointment instead of a consultant and satisfaction with the joint clinic.
Methods and materials: 100 patients were surveyed following their post-operation review with the nurse. Data was collected prospectively over a period of 6 months. Patients were asked to complete the questionnaire on the day of their appointment and to hand the survey prior to leaving. Hence we had 100% response rate.
Results: Majority of the respondents were female (61%) with 50 % having had total hip replacements and the rest had knee replacements. 99% of respondents (94/95) felt that enough time was spent with them during the appointment. All respondents (100%) reported that they were able to ask questions and were answered satisfactorily. The consultant saw 26% of respondents; further 6% was seen by a registrar and the rest 68% were seen by the nurse specialist. Reasons for being seen by a doctor included check up or assessment, reviewing stitches and infection. 42% of respondents (33/79) were referred for further treatment either by the consultant (33%), nurse (64%) or registrar (3%). Reasons for further treatment included physiotherapy, plaster room, and further follow up (check up) appointment at 3–6 months to review the patient following surgery. 100% of respondents (97/97) were satisfied with the combined consultant/nurse clinic. 3 did not record their response. The vast majority of respondents (80%, 79/99) reported that they ‘don’t mind’ who they would have been seen by in the clinic.
Discussion: The results indicate that patients are satisfied with the current clinic arrangements i.e. nurse-led clinic with the consultant being available. Hence there is a definite role for nurse led clinics for joint replacement surgery follow-ups.
Correspondence should be addressed to BHS c/o BOA, at the Royal College of Surgeons, 35–43 Lincoln’s Inn Fields, London, WC2A 3PE, England.
