Common causes include accidents, falls, bone tumors, cancer, and osteoporosis.
Fractures can result in pain, swelling, loss of function, movement of the affected body part, deformity, bleeding, and bruising.
Treatment of Fractures
Treatment requires realigning the broken bone ends for proper healing.
Clean breaks may be treated by manually setting the bone and placing it in a cast for healing.
Casts can be made of plaster of Paris, plastic, or fiberglass and must keep the bone protected and immobile.
Cast Care Guidelines
Do not cover casts with blankets.
Reposition patients every two hours to avoid casting deformation.
Hold wet casts with palms to avoid dents and pressure points.
Keep casts dry and do not insert objects to scratch itches inside.
Use pillows to elevate the injured body part to reduce swelling.
Signs to Report
Report to a nurse if there are signs like pain, swelling, pale or bluish skin, odor, inability to move, numbness, temperature changes, drainage, or systemic symptoms (chills, fever).
Traction Care
Traction is used for complicated fractures, like compound fractures; it maintains alignment through a steady pull on the limb.
Ensure proper alignment, keep weights off the floor, check ropes, assist with range of motion exercises, and monitor for infections or nerve damage.
Hip Fracture Care
Hip fractures are common in older adults, often requiring surgery and long recovery periods.
Complications include infections, blood clots, skin breakdown, and confusion.
Monitor skin, change positions to avoid bedsores, assist with deep breathing, and use supports as per care plans.
Never allow weight on the injured leg until clearance is given by a doctor.
Encourage the use of elastic stockings and be vigilant about fall prevention.
Conclusion
Understanding fracture care is essential for nursing assistants.
Ongoing learning through exercises, simulations, and practice is crucial for skill development.