In honor of #TeacherAppreciationWeek we wanted to highlight the teaching that happens during our mission trips. While in-country, OpWalk doctors share with colleagues advanced knowledge of joint replacement. Our team teaches while working side-by-side with anesthetists, surgeons, internists, nurses in the operation room, floor or recovery room, physical therapy, and central sterilizing of instruments. A typical mission may include:
– Prior to surgery, our surgeons team up with host hospital surgeons to evaluate each patient, discuss surgical options and plan the surgery schedule.
– Using patient X-rays, our surgeons lead discussions with in-country medical students to demonstrate diagnosis, planning, templating and evaluation of joint disease.
– Anesthesiologists teach anesthesia protocol and applications to partnering anesthesiologists. Techniques and care are emphasized.
-Nurses teach classes regarding the post-operative care of joint replacement patients. medications, pain management, dressing changes, positioning, timelines for suture removal and follow-up care are all discussed.
– Physical therapists hold classes for local therapists on appropriate post-operative and post-discharge care. If available, the outpatient department is evaluated and supplied with equipment to help in post-discharge therapy.
To learn more, visit our Education section.