Joint Replacement Nurse Navigator
Your Patient Navigator
Leading You Through the Steps Towards Orthopedic Surgery
Introducing Your Mercy Medical Center Orthopedic Nurse Navigator—
HEIDI HEVEY, RN
Orthopedic Clinical Program Coordinator/Nurse Navigator
We are happy to hear that you have selected Mercy Medical Center to have your joint replacement. We are pleased to provide you with a personal Patient Navigator, your partner in successful joint replacement healing for the next three months.
Who is your Patient Navigator?
- Your Patient Navigator is a Registered Nurse who cares and is there for you
in times of high stress - Your coach who helps navigate your care and therapy needs
– Your liaison between specialists and family physicians - Your educational resource to enable patient-led treatment decisions
- Your one person whom you can contact for any questions or to get help
- Help you get equipment or community services that may be available
What to Expect
On the day of surgery your nurse navigator will introduce herself to you in the preoperative area and complete a health care proxy if necessary
Once you get home, your Patient Navigator will
call you to:
- Check your current health status
- Answer any questions you may have
- Help schedule follow up appointments
Confirm you are able to get your medication and know how to take it
What Does Your Patient Navigator Do?
Makes the complicated more understandable, the overwhelming more manageable, and the overall health care experience more people centered.
How Does this Work?
Soon after you schedule your surgery your Patient Navigator will call to introduce herself to you and begin walking you through the steps of getting ready for your total joint surgery. Starting with this call, they will create a plan with you to help and support you along your healing journey. When you are discharged from the hospital your Patient Navigator will call you at home. This is a free service from Mercy Medical Center.
In Case of a Medical Emergency
Your Patient Navigator does not replace medical assistance or your physician’s advice. If you are experiencing symptoms that concern you, call your doctor. If you are having a medical emergency, call 911.