Enhanced Recovery Programme celebrate 3,000th patient

Patient Beryl O’Neil, from Malpas, became the 3,000th patient to go through the enhanced recovery pathway at The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital. 

Beryl, who is 82 years old, had a total hip replacement by Mr Geraint Thomas, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon. 

Shropshire’s specialist orthopaedic hospital introduced enhanced recovery back in April 2023. The programme aims to get patients back to full health as quickly as possible, following surgery. 

Enhanced recovery is an evidence-based approach that ensures patients are as healthy as possible prior to surgery as well as improving pain management during their hospital stay as post-operative mobilisation as soon as possible. 

Patients under the enhanced recovery programme are discharged from hospital when safe – which could be and often is on the same day as surgery. 

Beryl said: “I had a fantastic experience at RJAH for my hip replacement, although I was a little nervous at first, however Mr Thomas was a fantastic surgeon, and the staff soon put me at ease. 

“Prior to surgery, I attended a Joint School session which was extremely useful in preparing me for surgery.” 

Joint School sessions are led by a nurse, which give patients information prior to surgery, manages their expectations and provides guidance on how to best prepare for their upcoming surgery. 

Beryl added: “I can’t thank the team enough for my care – I've had more attention during my hospital stay than I have in a long time!” 

After surgery, patients have access to the dedicated team, who are available seven days a week, to discuss issues or ask questions. 

Mr Thomas said: “I am delighted that Beryl had a positive experience at RJAH – it's because of the enhanced recovery programme that she was able to return home so quickly following her surgery. 

“Enhanced recovery leads to a safer recovery, with fewer post-operative complications and patients have an increased awareness of how to prepare themselves and their home environment for surgery, before returning to independent living as soon as possible.” 

Mr Thomas and Mr Niall Graham champion the programme across the Oswestry-based hospital, with Rebecca Warren, Enhanced Recovery Lead. 

Mr Graham said: “Our enhanced recovery program is a great example of team working to ensure patient safety and improved outcomes while maximising resources across the local health system.” 

Rebecca added: “It’s fantastic that 3,000 patients have now been through our enhanced recovery programme – this wouldn’t have been possible without the hard work and dedication of so many people across the Trust.”