What this program does…

The Musculoskeletal Inpatient Unit at St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton is a:

• 32 bed unit caring for patients having orthopaedic surgery, plastic surgery or neurosurgery
• Specialty surgical procedures include: joint replacement of the hip and knee; surgeries for fractured hips, ankles and wrists; shoulder, elbow and hand surgery; complex wound care and repairs of traumatic injuries
• Recognized program for expertise in back care, both from the orthopaedic and neurosurgical perspectives
• Our surgeons are among the most highly trained and experienced physicians in the area and offer patients access to a complete array of orthopaedic and plastic subspecialties

How this program helps...

• Our activities reflect a strong interdisciplinary approach to promoting optimal function and independence, patient-centered care and quality outcomes
• We have a physiotherapy gym located on our unit
• Collectively our musculoskeletal team has decades of experience in helping restore and maintain function of the muscles, joints, and ligaments as quickly and safely as possible

Your Care Team

The team is comprised of many specialty care providers including:

• Surgeons/Physicians
• Nurses
• Physiotherapists
• Occupational Therapists
• Social workers
• Dieticians
• Pharmacists
• Unit Clerks
• Thromboembolism team
• Integrated Care Coordinator (ICC)
• Community Care Access Center (CCAC) coordinator

Contact

Please contact us at:

Tel: 905-522-1155 ext 33022

Referral Process

Patients are admitted to our unit before or after surgery as referred by a surgeon or Emergency Room physician

Preparing for Your Visit

Always bring your Health Card

We ask that you do not bring any valuables with you as the hospital cannot be responsible for lost or stolen personal items. 

You will need a housecoat and supportive footwear with non-slip soles as well as personal care items (toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, hairbrush)

Location

This unit is located on Level 7 of the Sister Mary Grace building - Charlton Campus, St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton

Registration Procedures

Patients having elective surgery register in the Day Surgery unit.

Non surgical patients may check in at the Nurses’ Station upon arrival to the Musculoskeletal Unit

After Your Visit

Discharge time is before 11:00 am. Please follow the discharge instructions provided by your care team.

If you have any questions following your discharge please contact your surgeon’s office, family doctor, Integrated Care Coordinator or Community Care Access Center Coordinator.

Additional Resources

Please see the following list of useful links and resources:

Osteoporosis Canada - Provides up-to-date information on the risks, prevention, diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis
www.osteoporosis.ca

The Arthritis Society of Canada - Provides information about types of arthritis, living with arthritis, educational materials and latest research
www.arthritis.ca

Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation – A charitable organization which provides information on bone and joint health, supports research, education and community care
www.canorth.org

Regional Joint Assessment Program (RJAP) - Supports chronic disease management for Osteoarthritis for patients with lower extremity problems involving the hip and knee. The team assesses the patient and assists in determining the best personalized treatment plan which may include either surgical or non-surgical treatment options
www.replacemyjoint.ca