Growing Bones
Why do children's bones heal faster than adults?
Thicker periosteum and increased vascularity.
What device treats developmental dysplasia of the hip in infants?
Pavlik harness
What condition involves inward turning of the foot at birth?
Congenital clubfoot
The name of the surgical procedure to correct scoliosis?
Spinal fusion
Someone with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy is lacking what protein?
Dystrophin
(found in skeletal muscles, cardiac muscles, surrounding muscle cells). Lack of dystrophin causes progressive weakness and muscle degeneration-over time damaged muscle tissue replaced with non-functional fibrotic tissue and fat
What vitamins/minerals are essential for bone growth?
Vitamin D, Vitamin C, and Calcium
How often are clubfoot casts typically changed?
Every 1-2 weeks for gradual correction
What test checks for hip instability in infants with DDH?
Barlow and Ortolani Maneuvers
Name two respiratory interventions after having surgery for scoliosis.
Incentive spirometry and turning with spinal precautions
What is the inheritance pattern of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy?
X-linked recessive
*males affected because they only have one x chromosome(x passed by mother and y passed down by father)-so if a mutation on it there is not another to mask effect of mutated one (girls xx) so if only one mutated x will be carrier
Why are kids more prone to greenstick fractures?
Bones are more flexible and less calcified.
What is the primary purpose of the Spica cast?
Maintain hip alignment post-surgery or DDH treatment
A Boston Brace would be worn in children with what degree of scoliosis curvature?
Moderate (20-40 degree curve)
What are the signs of compartment syndrome?
Pain, paresthesia (numbness/tingling/burning), paralysis (weakness or loss of muscle function), pallor (pale skin due to decreased blood flow), pulselessness (absence of pulse in affected limb), poikilothermia (coolness of affected limb).
What are two hallmark physical findings for DMD?
Gower's sign and pseudohypertrophy of calves
What is the most common site for growth plate injuries?
The epiphyseal plate.
How many hours a day should a Pavlik harness be worn
23 hours
What genetic disorder causes progressive muscle weakness in boys?
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
What nursing interventions prevent skin breakdown under a cast?
Keep clean/dry, check edges, avoid lotion/powders, reposition often
What medication would you anticipate may be used to slow muscle damage in an effort to preserve strength and function
corticosteroids like Prednisone
What happens if a growth plate injury is not properly treated?
It may cause limb length discrepancies or deformity.
What is the biggest risk with improper harness or cast use?
Skin breakdown, neurovascular compromise, or delayed correction
Identify the sign: child uses hands to "walk up" legs to stand
Gower's sign (DMD)
What pain management strategy supports post-op healing?
Scheduled analgesia (PCA or meds on a schedule-not PRN) + non-pharmacologic comfort (distraction, positioning)
Name two key nursing interventions for a child with DMD
Support mobility (PT/OT/administer corticosteroids), encourage independence, prevent contractures, skin integrity (w/c) assist with respiratory care, promote mental health