One of the potential complications of arthroscopy is infection. What signs and symptoms of joint infection would you emphasize in your patient teaching?

When teaching patients about the potential complications of arthroscopy, it is important to emphasize the signs and symptoms of joint infection. These can include persistent pain or discomfort that does not improve with rest or medication; swelling in the affected area; redness/warmth around the site of surgery; fever; drainage from incision sites; chills, nausea and other flu-like symptoms. Patients should be instructed to immediately contact their doctor if they experience any of these symptoms post-surgery as early recognition and treatment are important for avoiding serious outcomes. Furthermore, patients should also be reminded to maintain proper hygiene when caring for their wounds including frequent changing of dressings and washing hands before and after dressing changes.