Pharmacology
Vitamin D is used as a supplement for
Osteoporosis:Calcium and vitamin D supplementation should be taken with food. Exposure to vitamin D (moderate sun exposure using sunscreen, fortified milk) is important
Compartment Syndrome: Definition
Pressure from tissue swelling or bleeding within a compartment or a restricted space causes reduced blood flow to the area. Untreated, the affected tissue will become necrotic and die.
6 Ps of Neurovascular Assessment
Pain, pulse, pallor, paresthesia, paralysis, polar [cold skin temp])
Post-op pain medications
Patient-controlled analgesia pump, epidural and intrathecal infusions are used. Encourage the pt to ask for pain medication before pain gets severe. Monitor for manifestations of pain (an increased pulse, respirations, or blood pressure; restlessness; and wincing or moaning during movement)
Sprain: Definition
Stretching of a ligament. Twisting motions from a fall or sports activity can be the cause of the injury
Nursing Assessment in Osteoarthritis
Inspect gait, joints, and ROM
Reinforce with the client about joint protection: using large joints rather than small ones, using two hands to hold objects, bending the knees when reaching down rather than bending the waist
Alendronate: Therapeutic Use
Decreases number and actions of osteoclasts, subsequently inhibiting bone resorption for prevention and treatment of osteoporosis, hypercalcemia, and Paget’s disease of the bone
Strain: Definition
Excessive stretching or pulling of a muscle or tendon that is weak or unstable. Often caused by falls, lifting a heavy item, and exercise. Remember to RIICE
Symptoms of infection with post-op patient
Redness, excessive tenderness, and purulent drainage. Expected findings include pink wound edges, slight swelling under sutures/staples, and slight crusting of drainage.
Baclofen: Indications (when to use)
Used to treat muscle spasticity. Avoid stopping baclofen abruptly and monitor liver labs
Osteomyelitis is caused by
Staphylococcus aureus.
Nursing Interventions for Skeletal Traction Pin Site Care
A primary concept of pin care is that one cotton swab is designated for each pin to avoid cross-contamination. Done once per shift, increase the frequency of care if an increased amount of drainage is noted or infection is suspected
Medications used for Gout
Colchicine, Nsaids, Corticosteroids
Thromboemobolism: Client Education
Rotate feet at the ankles and perform other lower extremity exercises as permitted by the particular immobilization device.
Patient education for Gout
Stay on a low-purine diet, which includes no organ meats or shellfish. Limit alcohol intake. Avoid aspirin, and diuretics.Increase fluid intake.