Total hip replacement: improving patients' quality of life.

Hip arthroplasty (total hip replacement) is a common orthopaedic procedure that can greatly improve patients' quality of life. This article discusses the pathophysiology of hip dysfunction, the assessment and pre-operative screening of patients with hip pain, and some of the post-operative nursing considerations following hip arthroplasty. Multidisciplinary care of patients undergoing hip arthroplasty is essential to provide optimal care and an efficient service.