part 5

Question 1

What does an infection of an open fracture require?

Answer 1

• aggressive surgical debridement

- wound may or may not be closed after if more debridement is needed

Question 2

What are the 2 causes of compartment syndrome?

Answer 2

• decreased compartment size from restrictive dressings, splints, casts, and premature closure of fascia
• increased compartment contents related to bleeding, inflammation, edema, or IV infiltration

Question 3

With compartment syndrome if arterial flow is compromised what does this lead to?

Answer 3

ischemia
cell death
and loss of function

Question 4

How many of the 6 P’s constitutes compartment syndrome?

Answer 4

1 or more of the 6

Question 5

How fast can ischemia occur after the onset of compartment syndrome?

Answer 5

within 4-8 hours after the onset of compartment syndrome

Question 6

Compartment syndrome needs to have a prompt accurate diagnosis via regular neuromuscular assessments. What are some important early signs of compartment syndrome?

Answer 6

• notify of pain unrelieved by drugs and out of proportion to injury
• paresthesia

Question 7

Why should urine output and kidney function be assessed for someone with compartment syndrome?

Answer 7

• possible muscle damage releases myoglobin and causes obstruction in renal tubes
• dark reddish brown urine

Question 8

Why should you never elevate a limb with compression syndrome above the heart?

Answer 8

-it can lower venous pressure and slow arterial perfusion

Question 9

What are the 2 big “No’s” with treating compression syndrome?

Answer 9

• No elevation above the heart

- No ice

Question 10

What is a fasciotomy?

Answer 10

surgical decompression

• site may be left open for several days to ensure adequate soft tissue decompression
• infection can result leading to amputation