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Long-term sickness absence after knee replacement — DOccMed MCQ

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ModerateSickness Absence and RehabilitationLong-term sickness absence after knee replacementDOccMed

A warehouse picker is ten weeks after total knee replacement and has been absent since surgery. He can walk 20 minutes, cannot kneel, and his role includes frequent low-level picking from floor cages. What is the most appropriate advice regarding fitness for work?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: D — Plan phased return with temporary avoidance of kneeling and low-level picking

Return should be based on function and job demands, not simply the operation name. Temporary avoidance of kneeling and low-level picking can enable graded return while rehabilitation continues. Waiting for full normality may prolong absence unnecessarily. Imaging is not needed if recovery is clinically satisfactory.

Reference: NICE NG146; FOM Fitness for Work guidance