This document discusses improving patient education on proper sling use after shoulder surgery. It notes that many patients are improperly wearing their slings, which can increase pain, hinder range of motion recovery, and strain repairs. A SWOT analysis finds strengths in resources to address the problem but weaknesses in busy schedules. Opportunities exist in educating patients during follow-up visits. The recommendation is to provide handouts and clearer sling fitting instructions to help patients properly use their slings.

1. Orthopaedic Surgery
Capstone Assignment
Katelyn McNamara

2. Area of Need
● Sling positioning post shoulder surgery
● Patients coming in improperly wearing their slings

3. Why it’s Important
● Effects of Improper Sling Use
○ Increased pain
○ Difficulty regaining range of motion
○ Unnecessary strain to repair
● Can place shoulder in unnatural positions

4. SWOT Analysis
● Strengths
○ Have the resources to fix the
problem
○ Large staff to address problem
● Weaknesses
○ Busy schedules
● Opportunities
○ Easy to recorrect patients on proper
use
○ See patients 1 week post op
● Threats
○ If not done could put patient at risk

5. Recommendation/Action
● Handout on proper use of sling
● Better instruction on fit of sling at Pre/Post Operative visits

7. References
Proper sling use. Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute Website. https://www.
joionline.net/trending/content/proper-sling-use. Accessed
September 9, 2018.