Start with a conversation
Ask what help feels helpful.
Agree on what you’ll take care of, what they want to try themselves, and when you’ll ask the team for guidance. Revisit the plan as their needs change.
With the patient’s permission, join the discharge discussion. Ask staff to demonstrate safe transfers and tell you what level of assistance is needed. Avoid improvising lifting techniques.
Read more: Ascension Seton · Hip and knee patient manual (opens in a new tab)
Help with the ordinary things
Make the day a little easier.
Handle the background jobs.
Offer a meal, a grocery run, clean laundry, or pet care. Ask before changing their space.
Keep handoffs clear.
If you help with medicines, record what was given and when, using the prescribed plan. Tell the next helper.
Offer company without pressure.
Let them choose between conversation, quiet company, or rest. Keep visits manageable.
Bring questions to the team.
Write down concerns as they come up. Do not wait for the next appointment if a symptom is urgent.
Read more: Ascension Seton · Hip and knee patient manual (opens in a new tab)
You have a team to ask
Who helps with what?
Surgeon & surgical team
Procedure questions, restrictions, wound concerns, and the overall treatment plan.
Nursing team
Day-to-day care, medication questions, symptom concerns, and discharge teaching.
Physical therapist (PT)
Walking, stairs, transfers, and the movement and strengthening plan.
Occupational therapist (OT)
Dressing, bathing, toileting, and equipment that helps with daily tasks.
Case manager or discharge planner
Available home services, equipment arrangements, and support for leaving the hospital.
Team titles and available services vary. Ask who your main contact will be once you are home.
Read more: Ascension Seton · Hip and knee patient manual (opens in a new tab)
Words that leave room
Try a gentler check-in.
“Would you like a hand, or would you like me nearby?”
“What’s the hardest part of today?”
“Would you like us to call and ask?”
These are conversation starters, not a script. Listen to their answer and avoid comparing their progress with someone else’s.
You are part of the plan, too
Make room for your own needs.
Be specific about the time and physical help you can offer. Ask someone to cover an errand, an appointment ride, or a block of time so you can rest.
If care needs exceed what you can safely provide, tell the discharge planner or surgical team. Asking for more support is a practical next step.