The Effect of QR Code–Supported Patient Training on Total Knee Arthroplasty–Related Problems and Emergency Department Admission Rate

Abstract

Knee arthroplasty surgery, which is increasingly performed due to increased life expectancy, has positive outcomes, although it can also cause serious health problems following surgery. This study was conducted to evaluate the impact of patient-related education via a QR code on total knee arthroplasty problems and emergency department referral rates. Participants were randomly assigned to intervention (n = 51) and control (n = 51) groups. The intervention group received QR code–supported training. The outcomes were assessed at baseline (preoperative), discharge, and postoperative sixth week. In the intervention group, significantly fewer problems related to total knee arthroplasty occurred at discharge and in week 6, and a higher level of functionality was noted (P < .05). In week 6, the rate of emergency department admissions was lower, and mean scores for satisfaction with patient training were higher in the intervention group (P < .05). In conclusion, QR code–supported patient training was effective in reducing the physiological and psychosocial problems related to total knee arthroplasty and the emergency department referral rates. In addition, it provided functional improvement and increased satisfaction with patient training.