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Joint Replacement: Preventing Blood Clots
Joint Replacement: Preventing Blood ClotsAfter joint replacement surgery, you are at an increased risk of developing a blood clot. Blood clots aredangerous because they can lead to heart attack and stroke. You can reduce your risk of developing a bloodclot by getting active. Moving, even a little bit, will prevent swelling and help to circulate your blood.Before you leave the hospital, you will be prescribed blood-thinning medication to prevent blood clots. Somepeople may take this type of medication for a few weeks, while others may take it longer. Take youranticoagulant prescription or over the counter medication exactly as directed at the same time each day. Makeit a part of your daily routine so you don’t forget. If you do happen to forget a dose, contact your healthcareprovider. It may be best to wait until your next scheduled dose, so you don’t double up on your medication.When taking an anticoagulant or blood thinner, tell your doctor or dentist before scheduling an appointment.Talk to your healthcare provider before starting a new medication; some medications may interfere with theeffectiveness of your anticoagulant.Do your best to prevent bleeding because medications work to control your blood clotting ability. Anytime youbleed can be dangerous. Use an electric razor when you shave, instead of a blade. Be careful when cuttingfood or have someone else do it for you. Always wear shoes or protective footwear. If you do cut yourself,apply pressure until the bleeding stops. If it doesn’t stop after ten minutes, keep applying pressure to the injuryand go to the emergency room.Even though you are at an increased risk of developing a blood clot after joint replacement surgery, there arethings you can do to reduce your risk. Start to move around, and take your medication as prescribed.This program is for informational purposes only. Publisher disclaims all guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness,or suitability of this video for medical decision making. For all health related issues please contact your healthcare provider.VER59030B EN JointReplacementPreventingBloodClots.pdf© The Wellness NetworkPage 1 of 1
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