Osteomyelitis Lecture Review

Flashcards covering the definition, pathophysiology, risk factors, clinical manifestations, diagnostics, treatment, and complications of osteomyelitis based on lecture notes.

What is osteomyelitis?

An infection of bone tissue, typically bacterial, leading to inflammation, necrosis, and bone destruction.

How do pathogens typically enter the bone to cause osteomyelitis?

Pathogens can enter via hematogenous spread, contiguous spread from adjacent tissue, or direct inoculation.

What pathological processes occur in the bone during osteomyelitis?

Infection leads to inflammation, edema, vascular compromise, necrosis (sequestrum formation), and possibly new bone formation (involucrum) around necrotic tissue.

Which populations have an increased incidence of osteomyelitis?

Children, older adults, and immunocompromised patients.

Name some risk factors for developing osteomyelitis.

Open fractures, orthopedic surgery, prosthetic implants, diabetes mellitus, peripheral vascular disease, immune suppression, and IV drug use.

What are the common clinical manifestations of osteomyelitis?

Bone pain, fever, chills, localized swelling, redness, warmth, drainage, and limited movement of the affected limb.

How might chronic osteomyelitis present differently from acute infection?

Chronic osteomyelitis may present with sinus tracts and persistent drainage.

What laboratory findings are indicative of osteomyelitis?

Elevated WBC count, ESR, and CRP. Blood cultures may identify the pathogen.

What imaging techniques are sensitive for diagnosing osteomyelitis?

MRI and bone scans are more sensitive than X-rays, which show bone changes later.

What is considered the gold standard for diagnosing osteomyelitis?

Bone biopsy.

What are key nursing care interventions for a patient with osteomyelitis?

Monitor for sepsis, manage pain, provide wound care with sterile dressing changes, maintain mobility and safety, and administer IV antibiotics as prescribed.

What is a typical pharmacological consideration for osteomyelitis treatment regarding antibiotics?

Long-term IV antibiotics, typically 4–6 weeks or longer.

What dietary and lifestyle considerations are important for patients with osteomyelitis?

A high-protein, high-calorie diet for healing, adequate hydration, and smoking cessation to improve circulation.

What is crucial client education regarding antibiotic treatment for osteomyelitis?

The importance of completing the full antibiotic course and monitoring for recurrence of infection.

What therapeutic procedures might be necessary for osteomyelitis?

Surgical debridement of necrotic bone, drainage of abscesses, and possible amputation if the infection is uncontrolled.

Which healthcare professionals are typically involved in the interprofessional management of osteomyelitis?

Nursing, an infectious disease specialist, orthopedics, physical therapy, a wound care team, and a dietitian.

What are some potential complications of osteomyelitis?

Chronic osteomyelitis, sepsis, pathologic fractures, squamous cell carcinoma in chronic draining sinus tracts, and impaired mobility.