Effect of preoperative incentive spirometry patient education on patient outcomes in the knee and hip joint replacement population

Abstract

Purpose: This study examined the effects of preoperative incentive spirometry (IS) education (POISE) on postoperative outcomes for knee and hip total joint replacement patients.

Design: In this prospective study, 140 patients were randomized to Group 1 (POISE intervention = 50 completing) or Group 2 (no intervention = 56 completing) (34 dropped).

Methods: The Group 1 intervention consisted of formal instruction preoperatively for IS home use, postoperative use, and IS volumes documentation. Group 2 patients received no intervention. Patients recorded postoperative IS volumes, which were used to determine return to baseline volume.

Findings: One hundred six patients completed the study. Most were Caucasian females averaging 64 years. Although IS return to baseline volume time was not significantly different between groups, POISE patients had fewer postoperative complications, hospital days, and charges. POISE patients ranked the intervention as helpful.

Conclusions: Although IS volumes were not significantly different between groups, POISE patients had better outcomes and ranked the intervention as helpful.

Keywords: PPCs; incentive spirometry; physical therapy; postoperative complications; preoperative care, patient education; pulmonary complications.