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fractures
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What are osteoblasts? | bone forming cells |
| what are osteocytes? | mature bone cells |
| What are osteoclasts? | cells that break down bone |
| What are the two broad classifications of fractures? | Simple: closed (skin intact), Compound: open (direct communication between skin wound and fracture) |
| What are the more detailed classifications of fractures? | Green stick, impact, spiral, and comminuted |
| What are the stages of fracture healing? | Hematoma, granulation tissue, callus formation, ossification, consolidation , remodeling |
| What age groups are at risk for fractures? | Men 15-25 and adults >65 |
| What are the most common types of fractures due to MVA? | tibial fractures |
| What types of fractures are the elderly most at risk for? | veterbral, wrist and hip (usually due to falls) |
| What is the main priority for immediate fracture care? | to achieve and maintain proper allignment |
| What are other priorities for a fracture? | immbolize the injury, ice, elevation, frequent assessment |
| What are the nursing cares for fractures? | Decrease pain, prevent infections (ATB) tetanus shot, prevent hazards of immobility, restore function |
| What are the benefits of having a fiberglass or plastic cast? | light weight, can get wet and drys quicker |
| What is the purpose of traction? | to maintain alignment, immobolize, reduce muscle spasms, reduce pain and increase rest |
| What are the complications of fractures? | Infection (osteomylitis, gas gangrene, tetanus) Hemorrhage --> shock, PE, fat embolism, compartment syndrome |
| What types of fractures are more likely to result in a fat embolism? | pelvis, femur and tibia |
| When is a fat embolism most likely to occur? | within 48 hours of injury |
| What are the S/S of compartment syndrome? | pain unrelieved by meds, edema unrelieved by elevation, parathesia, decreased perfusion, pallor, pulselessness, paralysis |
| What is contraindicated in compartment syndrome? | applying ice and elevation |
| What should the nurse anticipate if compartment syndrome is suspected? | Cut off cast, surgery (fasciotomy) |