It's recommended that your spouse or a family member is assigned the role of a coach if you will be having joint surgery. The coach's role will be to provide motivation and encouragement, prepare the home for a safe return, to listen to and understand all discharge instructions and to be knowledgeable of a home exercise program and any precautions that go along with your specific surgery.
The coach will also be responsible for reviewing medications, being able to drive you home from the hospital, encourage attendance at follow-up doctor and therapy appointments, recognize the signs or symptoms of any postoperative complications and be available to help you at home for a few days.