Mercy opens orthopedic unit

Published August 20, 2020

A 22-bed unit is open at Mercy Hospital Northwest Arkansas in Rogers for post-operative patients who have undergone orthopedic and spine surgeries, according to an Aug. 17 news release. The hospital has also added an orthopedic service line coordinator and nurse navigator to help patients with treatment, booking appointments and escorting them on their surgery day and for post-surgery checks. 

“Having been through knee replacement myself, I’m thrilled Mercy Hospital is adding these important, specialized services for patients undergoing orthopedic procedures,” Eric Pianalto, president of Mercy Hospital stated in the news release. “Orthopedic patients’ needs are different from patients recovering from an illness and we think this dedicated unit will serve them well.”

There are 14 beds dedicated for patients who spend one day after an orthopedic surgery and eight beds for outpatients who leave the same day as their surgery. 

The unit has a therapy gym for patients to begin therapy immediately. 

The news release stated Mercy offers “some of the highest-rated care for orthopedic and spine patients.” 

“Statistically, patients do best with a short hospital stay and recovering in their own homes, so we get them home as soon as we can,” said Lindsay Kemp, orthopedic service line coordinator. “We’re very proud of our excellent outcomes for patients.” 

The unit compliments services offered through Mercy Clinic Orthopedics in Rogers, that has a team of seven surgeons and five physician assistants to offer orthopedic treatment and surgeries including knee and hip replacements, hand and wrist surgeries and back and spine treatment. 

Dr. Scott Cooper, a Mercy orthopedic surgeon, said in the news release, “Sure, it’s convenient for us to have our patients in one place, but the big advantage is for the patients. Having a team of nurses, aides and therapists experienced in musculoskeletal recovery and rehabilitation makes the process more efficient and even safer for patients. In the short time it’s been up and running, the feedback I’ve gotten from my patients has been extremely positive.”