Dressing-related Experiences and Surgical Site Self-care in Hip and Knee Replacement: an Observational Cohort Study

Dressing-Related Experiences and Surgical Site Self-Care in Hip and Knee Replacement: an Observational Cohort Study (DRESS-X)

The goal of this prospective observational cohort study is to investigate dressing-related experiences and surgical site self-care in patients who are undergoing a total hip or knee replacement. The main objectives of the study are:

• To evaluate patient adherence to the ISWCAP self-care checklist after total hip or knee replacement within an ERAS pathway.
• To explore patient-reported outcomes related to the performance and comfort of advanced dressings.
• To assess the perceived adequacy and usefulness of post-discharge wound care education.
• To identify the incidence and types of wound-related complications in the 12 weeks following surgery.

Participants will give informed consent before surgery and will start the study once the dressing has been applied following surgery. There will be follow up study visits at discharge, 7 days, 12 days, 6 weeks and 12 weeks post-surgery. Data relating to vital signs, medical history, surgery and medication will be taken from routine data.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adults (18+) undergoing primary total hip or knee replacement
• Enrolled in an ERAS protocol
• Willing and able to provide informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Requiring revision replacement
• Unable to provide informed consent (cognitive disorder such as dementia, psychiatric illness)
• Unable to understand written English