part 4

Question 1

What are some “no no’s” we need to teach patient about casts?

Answer 1

Do Not:

• get plaster cast wet
• remove padding
• insert objects into cast
• cover with plastic for long periods
• bear weight for initial 48 hours

Question 2

What should we teach pt’s about cast removal?

Answer 2

-possible alterations in appearance of extremity

Question 3

What do we need to find out before a pt ambulates with a cast?

Answer 3

weight bearing status

Question 4

What is important to remember about instructing pt’s using assistive devices?

Answer 4

-the limb involved is usually advanced immediately after or at the same time as the assistive device

Question 5

What are the 2 types of fracture complications?

Answer 5

direct or indirect

Question 6

What are direct complications of a fracture?

Answer 6

Problems With:

• bone infection
• bone union
• avascular necrosis

Question 7

What are indirect complications of a fracture?

Answer 7

Associated With:

• blood vessel and nerve damage (compartment syndrome)
• VTE
• FES
• skeletal muscle breakdown (rhabdomyolysis)
• hypovolemic shock

Question 8

Why does death after a fracture happen?

Answer 8

can result from damage to underlying organs and vascular structures or from complications of the fracture or immobility

Question 9

What has a high incidence for infection?

Answer 9

high incidence in open fractures and soft tissue injuries

-prevention is key

Question 10

What can infection of a fracture lead to?

Answer 10

chronic osteomyelitis

Question 11

What is used to prevent infection of a fracture?

Answer 11

• IV antibiotics

- antibiotic impregnated beads in surgical site