Nursing responsibilities
treat before casting, bracing, or splinting fracture
joints proximal and distal to fracture
What is prevention of constipation?
prevents movement of fracture fragments
what is immobilization?
Increases in severity until the bone is immobilized
What is pain?
action that is done 24-48 hours after application of cast/splint, etc.
what is elevation of extremity above the level of the heart?
heat is given off while cast is applied
what is an exothermic reaction?
to prevent deterioration, deconditioning, venous stasis
What is muscle exercises?
can take up to 72 hours to dry
What is plaster casts?
can be felt or heard over place of fracture
What is crepitus?
instruct patient to "push down" the knee or "make a fist" in affected extremity
what is isometric exercises?
allows for natural swelling
what is splints?
helps fully expand lungs and clear secreations
what is turn cough deep breathing? (to prevent pneumonia)
the patients body weight and bed position usually act as this
What is counter traction?
mainly in fractures of long bones
after removal of cast nurse instruct patient to ____
what is not shaving immediately, scratch, and apply lotion?
used for conditions that require special skin care
what is braces?
to alleviate pressure or discomfort with traction
What is frequent repositioning?
asking the patient about sensation
increased pressure in a confined space that compromises blood flow and perfusion to area of fracture
What is compartment syndrome?
assess q8-12h for redness, swelling, pain, warmth
what is assessing pin site care?
unpleasant odor, purulent drainage, increase in temperature
what is systemic signs of infection? (with cast on)
encourage patient not to move in bed with elbows or heels
what is preventing skin break down?
most effective cleansing solution for pin site care
What is chlorhexidine 2 mg/mL?
pulselessness, paresthesia, and complete paralysis
What are late signs of compartment syndrome?