Musculoskeletal System Overview
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Questions and Answers

What is a crucial nursing intervention for a patient with a cast to prevent complications?

  • Encouraging frequent movement of the injured limb
  • Avoiding elevation of the extremity
  • Monitoring for signs of nerve and vascular compromise (correct)
  • Reducing water intake to avoid swelling

Which of the following is an early sign of compartment syndrome?

  • Increased range of motion
  • Severe muscle weakness
  • Bradycardia
  • Paresthesia in the affected limb (correct)

What is a primary concern with the management of traction in orthopedic care?

  • Decreasing pain tolerance
  • Limiting joint movement entirely
  • Preventing muscle spasms only
  • Maintaining correct body alignment (correct)

Fat embolism syndrome is characterized by which of the following symptoms?

<p>Chest pain, confusion, and petechial rash (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What indication suggests a risk for infection at a pin insertion site in skeletal traction?

<p>Warmth and redness around the pin site (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which clinical finding would most likely suggest complications in the presence of a cast?

<p>Edema in the distal fingers or toes (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

During the assessment of a patient with a cast, which parameter is critical to monitor?

<p>The color and temperature of the distal limb (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which nursing assessment is essential when monitoring for complications related to a cast?

<p>Assessing for symmetry in bilateral limbs (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for using chlorhexidine in pin care?

<p>To reduce infection risk (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true regarding the use of traction?

<p>Proper positioning is critical (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key sign indicating the possibility of compartment syndrome?

<p>Increased local swelling (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What might trigger fat embolism in a patient with a femur fracture?

<p>Stress response releasing fatty acids (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following strategies is important in nursing management of cast complications?

<p>Elevating the extremity affected by the cast (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it essential to monitor skin integrity in patients with traction?

<p>To prevent skin breakdown (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of acute complications, what characterizes cast syndrome?

<p>Psychological and physiological symptoms (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What action should a nurse take when compartment syndrome is suspected?

<p>Contact the healthcare provider immediately (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key sign that may indicate compartment syndrome?

<p>Burning pain (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a nursing intervention to prevent infection at the pin sites of an external fixator?

<p>Assess every 8 hours for redness and drainage (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a possible complication to monitor for in a patient with an open fracture being managed with external fixation?

<p>Decreased range of motion (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the pathophysiology of fat embolism?

<p>Release of fat globules into the bloodstream following trauma (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In managing a cast, what symptom should be reported to the doctor immediately to prevent serious complications?

<p>Unrelieved pain indicating potential pressure injury (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended position for elevating an injured limb in a cast?

<p>At heart level (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is an essential nursing action to maintain neurovascular status in a patient with a cast?

<p>Encourage movement of fingers and toes every hour (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following complications is associated with delayed onset after an injury or surgery?

<p>Complex regional pain syndrome (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if a pressure area is identified in a plaster cast?

<p>Report it to the doctor immediately (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic might indicate improper blood supply in a patient with a cast?

<p>Skin color appearing pale or bluish (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of muscle contraction occurs when the muscle length remains constant despite the application of force?

<p>Isometric contraction (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of joint allows for movement in multiple directions and includes the wrist joint?

<p>Gliding joint (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main source of energy required for muscle contraction?

<p>ATP (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What condition describes the decrease in muscle tone and firmness, resulting in a 'floppy' appearance?

<p>Flaccidity (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What structure surrounds the articular bone and is crucial for lubrication and shock absorption in joints?

<p>Joint capsule (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of using traction in orthopedic care?

<p>To maintain and promote alignment of bones (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which intervention is essential for preventing skin breakdown in patients under traction?

<p>Applying skin sealants over bony prominences (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What symptom is characteristic of compartment syndrome that requires immediate medical attention?

<p>Severe pain disproportionate to the injury (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the management of pin care for external fixators?

<p>Cleaning with chlorhexidine and applying bacitracin every 8 hours (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor most contributes to the risk of developing fat embolism syndrome?

<p>Having multiple fractures or a femur fracture (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be assessed regularly to monitor for nerve damage in a patient with a cast?

<p>Temperature of the extremity (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which psychological and physiological symptoms could indicate cast syndrome?

<p>Anxiety, increased respiration, and diaphoresis (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant concern regarding the use of tight casts or dressings?

<p>Compromise of blood flow leading to complications (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement is true regarding the management of a patient after total hip arthroplasty?

<p>The affected leg should remain in a neutral position postoperatively. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What indicates that a drain post-operation may need to be removed?

<p>The drainage has significantly decreased to 25-30 ml after 48 hours. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which condition would NOT typically lead to a total hip arthroplasty?

<p>Kidney failure requiring dialysis (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What nursing intervention is essential for a patient post-joint replacement to prevent complications?

<p>Monitor the incision line for signs of infection. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When assessing a patient with a pelvic fracture, which of the following symptoms would NOT typically be observed?

<p>Decreased mobility without pain (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which diagnostic test is used to assess bone density and the risk of fractures?

<p>Dexa scan (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does a physical assessment of posture, joints, and spine help to determine?

<p>Overall musculoskeletal health (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of an arthrocentesis procedure?

<p>To aspirate joint fluid for testing (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor can significantly impede the healing process in patients with musculoskeletal issues?

<p>Arterial insufficiency (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is an important aspect of monitoring a patient in a cast to prevent complications?

<p>Checking for the six Ps of circulation (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which lab value increases with fracture healing and is also seen in certain cancers?

<p>Serum phosphatase (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should a nurse educate a patient about regarding activities with a cast?

<p>Keeping the cast dry is essential, and covering it when in water is recommended. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is indicated by contractures in a patient's joint?

<p>Shortening of surrounding joint structures (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential long-term complication associated with a pelvic fracture?

<p>Avascular necrosis (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What assessment is crucial for understanding the extent of injuries in a patient with a pelvic fracture?

<p>Neurovascular assessment (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which symptom may indicate the presence of fat emboli in a patient recovering from a fracture?

<p>Mental status changes (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended positioning for a patient with a humeral fracture?

<p>Place the arm in a sling at a 90-degree flexion (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common symptom of fat embolism syndrome that may develop days after the initial injury?

<p>Petechiae of the upper body (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which management approach can help prevent complications after a long bone fracture?

<p>Position changes and early surgical fixation (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In managing a clavicle fracture, what should be avoided to promote proper healing?

<p>Elevating the arm above shoulder level (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which clinical finding is associated with hypoxia after a fat embolism?

<p>Decreased PAO2 levels (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be avoided to ensure proper healing after a total hip replacement?

<p>Crossing legs (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of traction?

<p>To immobilize a fracture and reduce deformity (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a recommended care tip for managing skin traction?

<p>Monitor the pin insertion sites regularly (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the event of a hip fracture, which condition may occur due to poor blood supply?

<p>Avascular necrosis (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be done when a dislocation occurs?

<p>Immediately reduce it to realign (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a sign of potential circulatory impairment in a patient under traction?

<p>Coolness or pallor in extremities (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be the approach to dressing after a hip replacement?

<p>Use assistive devices like reachers (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What dietary consideration is essential to prevent complications post-surgery?

<p>High fiber intake (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic is important in maintaining the integrity of traction equipment?

<p>Ropes must rest properly in the groove of the pulley (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What immediate actions should be taken to manage a contusion?

<p>Using the PRICE method (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary concern when assessing pin sites in skeletal traction?

<p>Risk of infection at the pin site (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why should a patient under traction be monitored for skin integrity?

<p>To avoid friction and pressure injuries (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of traction is known to involve the use of heavier weights and is for more severe injuries?

<p>Skeletal traction (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Post-surgery, which practice is most effective in preventing DVT?

<p>Frequent position changes and leg exercises (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Neurovascular Checks

Regular assessment of circulation, sensation, and movement to a part of the body (like an arm or leg).

Compartment Syndrome

A serious condition where pressure builds up in a muscle compartment, reducing blood flow and damaging tissues.

Six Ps

A set of clinical signs used to assess for impaired circulation in an extremity (pain, pallor, paresthesia, paralysis, pulselessness, and poikilothermia).

Pin Care

Cleaning and maintaining the care and surroundings of pins.

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Internal Fixation

Using metal devices inserted into a bone to stabilize a fracture.

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Cast Syndrome

Psychological and physiological reaction to a cast, usually a spica cast including Anxiety, increased respiration, sweating, and other symptoms.

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Fat Embolism

A serious complication of bone fractures, where fat globules enter the bloodstream and can block blood vessels to the lungs and other organs (typically occurs with major long bone fractures).

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Pressure Injury

Damage to the skin and underlying tissues caused by prolonged pressure on the body.

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Pressure Injuries in Casts

Unrelieved pain under a cast that can lead to tissue damage (necrosis) and poor circulation.

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Cast Drying Time

Plaster casts take 24-72 hours to dry completely and reach full strength.

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Cast Elevation

Raising the injured limb below the heart to reduce swelling (edema).

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Bivalving a Cast

Cutting open a cast to access and treat a wound underneath.

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External Fixator

Surgical device with pins inserted into the bone to hold a fracture in place.

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Open Fracture

A fracture where the skin is broken over the area.

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Skin Integrity

Maintaining the health and wholeness of the skin.

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Post-Injury Complications (Early)

Immediate dangers after trauma to a limb like shock, fat embolism, and compartment syndrome

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Sensory Disturbances (Paresthesia)

Numbness or burning sensations in a part of the body.

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Physical Assessment (Joints)

Examining joints for deformities, inflammation, and range of motion (ROM).

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Cast Care

Maintaining circulation, sensation, and movement in a casted extremity.

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Arthrocentesis

Procedure to remove fluid from a joint.

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Diagnostic Imaging

X-rays, CT scans, MRIs used to visualize bones and joints.

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Serum Calcium Levels

Blood test measuring calcium levels, important in bone health.

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6 Ps (Casts/Injuries)

Pain, pulse, pallor, paresthesia, paralysis, and pressure; used to check for circulation/nerve status.

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Paresthesia

Abnormal sensation like tingling, numbness, or burning. It can be a symptom of nerve damage or other medical conditions.

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Posture Assessment

Examining a patient's stance and alignment of their body parts to identify potential issues with their musculoskeletal system.

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Joint Deformities

Abnormal shapes or positions of joints, indicating potential injury or disease.

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Joint Function and ROM

Measuring the range of motion and how well a joint can move without pain or limitation.

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Cast Care: 6 Ps

Monitoring for signs of impaired circulation using the '6 Ps' - pain, pallor, paresthesia, paralysis, pulselessness, and poikilothermia.

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Bone Density Scan (DEXA)

A test that measures bone density to assess osteoporosis risk and monitor bone health.

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What are the types of joints?

Joints are where two bones meet. There are different types of joints, each allowing specific movements. The main types are:

  • Ball and Socket: Allow movement in all directions (hip, shoulder)
  • Hinge: Allow bending in one direction (elbow, knee)
  • Saddle: Allows movement at a right angle (thumb)
  • Pivot: Allow one bone to rotate around another (radius/ulna)
  • Gliding: Allow movement in all directions (wrist)
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What is the function of synovial fluid?

Synovial fluid is a thick liquid found in joint capsules. It provides lubrication, reducing friction during movement. It also acts as a shock absorber, protecting the cartilage in the joint.

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What is fascia?

Fascia is a type of fibrous tissue that surrounds muscles. It helps to organize and support the muscle fibers, allowing them to contract and move efficiently.

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How does muscle tone affect movement?

Muscle tone refers to the state of partial contraction in a muscle. It's essential for maintaining posture and controlled movement.

  • Increased tone: Makes muscles feel tense (anxiety, stress)
  • Decreased tone: Muscles feel relaxed (sleep, relaxation)
  • Flaccid: No tone, muscles are floppy
  • Spastic: High tone, muscles are stiff and tight
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What are the two main types of muscle contraction?

Muscles contract to produce movement. There are two main types:

  • Isometric: The muscle doesn't shorten, but tension increases (wall sit)
  • Isotonic: The muscle shortens, while tension remains the same (flexing forearm)
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What are the 6Ps?

Clinical signs used to assess for impaired circulation in an extremity, including pain, pallor, paresthesia, paralysis, pulselessness, and poikilothermia.

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What is a traction boot?

A boot used in traction systems to provide a pulling force, often used for hip fractures or broken legs.

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What is compartment syndrome?

A serious condition where pressure builds up in a muscle compartment, reducing blood flow and damaging tissues.

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What is a pressure ulcer?

Damage to the skin and underlying tissues caused by prolonged pressure on the body.

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Why is pin care important?

Regular cleaning and monitoring of pins used in external fixation to prevent infection and ensure proper healing.

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What are fat embolisms?

A serious complication of bone fractures where fat globules enter the bloodstream and can block blood vessels to the lungs and other organs.

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What is a spica cast?

A type of cast that immobilizes the whole trunk of the body, including the hip and sometimes the leg or arm.

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What is cast syndrome?

A psychological and physiological reaction to a cast, usually a spica cast, that includes anxiety, increased respiration, sweating, and other symptoms.

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Pelvic Bone

The pelvic bone is formed by the sacrum, ileum, pubis, and ischium. It provides support and stability for the lower body.

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Stable vs. Unstable Pelvic Fracture

Stable pelvic fractures involve one break in the pelvic ring, while unstable fractures involve multiple breaks leading to instability and potential organ damage.

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Possible Complications post Joint Replacement

Complications after joint replacement surgeries include dislocation, infection, excessive wound drainage, blood clots (DVT), pressure ulcers, and bone formation in the prosthetic space.

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Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA)

This surgery replaces the hip joint with a prosthesis to relieve pain and improve mobility due to conditions like arthritis, fracture, failed reconstruction, or avascular necrosis.

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Post-op Hip Replacement: Patient Positioning

After total hip replacement, the patient should be positioned supine (on their back) with the head of the bed slightly elevated, less than 60 degrees. The affected leg should be in neutral position, with an abductor pillow used to keep legs apart. Turning onto the operative side is contraindicated.

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Hypoxia

A condition where the body's tissues are not receiving enough oxygen.

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Thrombocytopenia

A decrease in the number of platelets in the blood, making it difficult to clot.

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Clavicle Fracture

A break in the collarbone, often caused by a fall or direct blow to the shoulder.

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Humeral Fracture

A break in the upper arm bone.

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Pelvic Fracture

A break in the pelvic bone, often caused by major trauma like a car accident or a fall.

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Pendulum Exercises

Gentle swinging motions of the arm after a shoulder injury to improve range of motion and prevent stiffness.

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Neurovascular Assessment

Checking circulation, sensation, and movement in an injured limb to detect any nerve damage.

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What are key precautions after an Anterior approach hip surgery?

Avoid crossing legs, bending hip greater than 90 degrees, lowering into chairs, tubs, twisting legs, and bending over for any reason. Use abductor pillows, raised toilets, sponge bath or tub bench, non-skid socks, and reachers.

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What is Traction?

Applying a pulling force to the body, used as a temporary measure before surgery. It reduces muscle spasms, aligns fractures, and increases space between bones.

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What is Skin Traction?

A type of traction using lighter weights attached to a boot or Velcro boot. It reduces muscle spasms until surgery.

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What is Skeletal Traction?

Traction using heavier weights attached to pins inserted into the bone. It's used for severe injuries and needs constant monitoring.

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What are the principles of Traction?

Traction must be continuous, weights shouldn't hang freely or touch the floor, pulleys need to be in groves and checked, and the foot plate shouldn't touch the bed.

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What is Counter Traction?

The patient's own body weight working against the traction force.

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What is Reduction?

Putting a broken bone back into its correct alignment.

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What is PRICE?

A treatment for contusions, sprains, and strains: Protect, Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation.

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What is a dislocation?

When the bones in a joint are no longer in their normal position.

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What are some complications of Traction?

Skin breakdown, nerve pressure, and circulatory impairment.

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What are the Six Ps?

A way to assess circulation: Pain, Pallor, Paresthesia, Paralysis, Pulselessness, and Poikilothermia.

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What is a Total Hip Replacement?

A surgical procedure where a damaged hip joint is replaced with artificial parts.

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What are common symptoms of a Hip Fracture?

Leg adducted, shortened and externally rotated, pain in the hip, groin, knee, and thigh, and limited ROM.

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What are Intracapsular and Extracapsular Hip Fractures?

Intracapsular fractures are within the hip joint, near the neck of the femur. Extracapsular fractures are outside the joint, in the trochanter region.

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What are some prevention strategies for Hip Fractures?

Regular bone density tests, fall precautions, weight-bearing exercises, and calcium intake.

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Study Notes

Musculoskeletal System

  • 206 bones in the human body
  • Bones are composed of cortical (compact) and cancellous (spongy) tissue
  • Bone function includes protection of vital organs, movement, blood cell production, and mineral storage
  • Bone is in a constant state of remodeling and regeneration
  • Exercise, diet (calcium, vitamin D), and thyroid function impact bone formation and maintenance
  • Bone mass typically peaks by age 20
  • Bone healing involves three phases: reactive, reparative, and remodeling

Bone Fracture Healing

  • Reactive phase: initial bleeding, clot formation, cytokine release, and angiogenesis.
  • Reparative phase: granulation tissue, callus formation, and woven bone formation
  • Remodeling phase: new bone formation to replace previous bone and necrotic bone removal

Joints

  • Types of joints: ball-and-socket, hinge, saddle, pivot, and gliding
  • Joints are often involved in movement
  • Joint capsule: surrounds the articular surfaces and is lined with synovial fluid, aiding in shock absorption
  • Ligaments and tendons connect bones and muscles to the bone

Muscles

  • Muscles are composed of cells and connective tissue called fascia
  • Muscles are attached to bones by tendons
  • Muscles contract using Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP)
  • Muscle fatigue can occur due to lactic acid buildup
  • Muscle tone is the maintenance of muscle fibers in a contracted state
  • Muscle disorders include fasciculation, atrophy, and hypertrophy

Assessment

  • Medical history, past medical history, medications, pain, sensory disturbance are assessed
  • Physical examination of posture, joints, inflammation, ROM, spine (kyphosis, lordosis, scoliosis), neurovascular signs, and movement are assessed to assess bone and muscle function.

Diagnostic Tests

  • X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, DEXA scans, blood tests, and EMG are used to diagnose musculoskeletal conditions and injuries.

Casts and Traction

  • Maintaining vascular status, sensory status, and preventing pressure areas is crucial for cast care
  • Compartment syndrome is a potential complication of casts
  • Traction is used to manage pain, reduce muscle spasms, align, and immobilize fractures.

Hip Fractures

  • Common in older females due to osteoporosis
  • External rotation, shortening of the leg, groin/groin pain are potential symptoms
  • Hip precautions should be followed to prevent dislocation and complications
  • Priorities: respiratory support, circulatory checks, pain control, prevention of immobility

Musculoskeletal Injuries

  • Common injuries: fractures, sprains, strains, dislocations, and contusions
  • Treatment for injuries: PRICE (protection, rest, ice, compression, elevation)

Nursing Care

  • Monitoring for complications, including infections and compartment syndrome, is a key role for nurses.
  • Assessments like neurovascular checks (6 Ps) and pain management must be regular parts of care.

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