Effect of Increased Perioperative Communication Program on Short-term Outcomes in Elective Primary Knee Arthroplasty Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Seyman C. C., Urfa S., Cicibas Y., Ünlü H., Yıldırım A. Ö.

Journal of Perianesthesia Nursing, vol.41, no.1, pp.138-144, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, SSCI, Scopus) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 41 Issue: 1
  • Publication Date: 2026
  • Doi Number: 10.1016/j.jopan.2025.05.020
  • Journal Name: Journal of Perianesthesia Nursing
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus, CINAHL, MEDLINE
  • Page Numbers: pp.138-144
  • Keywords: communication program, complication, knee arthroplasty, nursing, randomized controlled trial, satisfaction
  • Hacettepe University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Purpose This study aimed to determine the effect of an increased perioperative communication program (IPCP) in patients with total knee arthroplasty (TKA) on early postoperative outcomes. Design A randomized controlled trial design was employed. Methods This study was conducted with a total of 70 patients with TKA, 35 in the intervention group (IG) and 35 in the control group (CG). Eligible TKA patients were randomly allocated to IG and CG, respectively. While patients in the CG received routine perioperative care, patients in the IG were included in IPCP. All patients were followed for one month after discharge. Findings The level of postoperative pain, length of hospital stay, postoperative early complications, and unplanned readmission rate was significantly reduced in the IG compared with the CG. Conclusions IPCP was a useful, satisfactory intervention and kept patients better informed. Results support that postoperative complications in TKA patients may be reduced with a well-designed preoperative preparation process, sustainable communication, and postdischarge follow-up.