Fractures

• What is a fracture?

  A disruption or break in bone structure
• What are the two main causes of fractures?

  Traumatic events and disease processes
• What are the two types of fractures based on skin integrity?

  Closed and open fractures
• What are the two types of fractures based on completeness?

  Complete and incomplete fractures
• What are the two types of fractures based on displacement?

  Displaced and non-displaced fractures
• What is the most obvious symptom of a fracture?

  Pain
• What are common symptoms of fractures?

  Pain, swelling, deformity, muscle spasm
• What are the overall goals of fracture treatment?

  Reduction, immobilization, restoration of function
• What is closed reduction in fracture treatment?

  Nonsurgical, manual realignment of bone fragments
• What is the purpose of traction in fracture treatment?

  To apply a pulling force to aid healing
• What is open reduction in fracture treatment?

  Surgical correction of bone alignment
• What is a risk associated with open reduction?

  Infection
• What is skin traction?

  Short-term traction using tape or splints
• What is skeletal traction?

  Long-term traction involving pins in bones
• What are the risks of skeletal traction?

  Infection and complications from immobility
• What are the methods of fracture immobilization?

  Casts, external fixation, internal fixation
• What is included in a neurovascular assessment for fractures?

  Temperature, capillary refill, peripheral pulses
• What should be compared during a neurovascular assessment?

  The extremities
• What are nursing interventions for fractures?

  Pre-operative and post-operative management
• What is included in pre-operative management for fractures?

  Vital signs and frequent assessments
• What is included in post-operative management for fractures?

  Pain management and proper positioning
• What additional measures should be taken for fracture patients?

  High-fluid intake and early mobilization
• What is the purpose of high-fluid intake in fracture management?

  To prevent constipation and renal calculi
• What is the role of early mobilization in fracture recovery?

  To prevent complications unless contraindicated