Fractures and Treatment Methods

These flashcards cover key concepts related to fracture healing, complications, treatment methods, and nursing assessments.

What are two common anticoagulants used in treating patients with fractures?

Heparin and Coumadin.

What is Delayed Union in the context of fractures?

Delayed Union refers to a fracture that fails to heal within the usual time, but will eventually repair itself.

What is Nonunion in fractures?

Nonunion is the failure of the ends of a fractured bone to unite and produce a stable union after 6-9 months.

What are some methods used to treat Nonunion fractures?

Bone grafting, prosthetic implant, internal fixation, external fixation, or a combination of these methods.

What is a new method used to promote healing in fractures?

Electrical stimulation stimulates bone production.

What medications counteract inflammation in the lungs?

Oxygen, IV fluids, and steroids.

How does Skeletal Pin External Fixation immobilize fractures?

By using pins inserted through the bone that are attached to a rigid external metal frame.

What is important for pin care in Skeletal Pin External Fixation?

Assess every 8 hours for signs and symptoms of infection and clean with aseptic technique.

What are casts made of in nonsurgical interventions?

Layers of plaster of Paris, fiberglass, or plastic roller bandages.

What is the nursing assessment frequency for a cast?

Neurovascular assessment every 15 to 30 minutes for the first few hours, then every 4 hours.

What device is used for cast removal?

A vibrating saw.

What is a sign of infection associated with a cast?

A foul odor.

What is the purpose of traction in fracture treatment?

To align and stabilize a fracture site, relieve pressure on nerves, maintain correct positioning, prevent deformities, and relieve muscle spasms.

What is Skeletal Traction?

Skeletal traction is applied directly to a bone fracture using pins that protrude through the skin on both sides of the extremity.

Which fractures is Skeletal Traction used for?

Fractures of the femur, tibia, humerus, and cervical spine.

What is Skin Traction?

A type of traction that uses adhesive materials or straps applied to the skin.