Quality Measures: Hip & Knee Replacement
The quality measure charts below show New Hanover Regional Medical Center's quality performance in Hip and Knee Arthroplasty (as reported to the Joint Commission). The percentage scores show how frequently these select standard protocol procedures where done in Hip and Knee Arthroplasty procedures. In all charts below a higher percentage score is better.
Hip Arthroplasty
Hip Arthroplasty or hip joint replacement is surgery to replace all or part of the hip joint with an artificial joint. The artificial joint is called a prosthesis.
Knee Arthroplasty
Knee Arthroplasty or knee joint replacement is surgery to replace a knee joint with an artificial joint. The artificial joint is called a prosthesis.
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Prophylactic Antibiotic within 1hr prior to surgical incision
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Why are these measures important?
Prevention of surgical wound infections is key in order to improve outcomes for patients. Medical research shows that surgery patients who get antibiotics within the hour before their surgery are less likely to get wound infections. However, getting an antibiotic earlier, or after surgery begins, is not as effective. In order to reduce infections, NHRMC staff makes sure a prophylactic antibiotic is given at the right time. Higher percentages mean better outcomes.
Reporting Period: January - March 2012
The Higher Percentage Score is better
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Prophylactic Antibiotic Selection for Surgical Patients
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It is known that surgical wound infections can be prevented. However, it is important to use the correct antibiotic in order to be effective. Research has shown that certain antibiotics work better to prevent wound infections for certain types of surgery. For this reason, NHRMC makes sure patients get the antibiotic that works best for their type of surgery.
Reporting Period: January - March 2012
The Higher Percentage Score is better
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Prophylactic ABX Discontinued within 24 hours after surgery end
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As important as it is to give antibiotics to patients before surgery to prevent infection, taking these antibiotics for more than 24 hours after routine surgery is usually not necessary. Continuing the medication longer than necessary can increase the risk of side effects such as stomachaches and serious types of diarrhea. Also, when antibiotics are used for too long, patients can develop resistance to them and the antibiotics won't work as well.
Reporting Period: January - March 2012
The Higher Percentage Score is better
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