A patient being discharged after hip replacement reports leg length discrepancy. What is the appropriate action?

• A. Cancel discharge and call the physician.
• B. Have the patient stand to verify.
• C. Document and continue discharge.
• D. Reassure the patient it’s normal.

Answer: (A)

Leg length discrepancy after a hip replacement is a red flag that requires prompt medical evaluation. It can indicate a dislocation, prosthesis malalignment, fracture, or nerve/soft-tissue issues affecting leg length and function. Because timely assessment and possible imaging are important to prevent complications, the safest action is to pause discharge and notify the physician for further evaluation. In the meantime, avoid forcing the patient to stand to “verify” leg length, which could risk dislocation or injury. Simply documenting and continuing discharge or reassuring the patient that it’s normal could miss a serious problem.