A fracture is a break in the continuity of a bone, resulting from excessive force or stress applied to the bone. It is different from a dislocation, which involves the displacement of bone from its normal position at a joint.
a. A dislocation of a joint: A dislocation involves the displacement of bone from its normal position at a joint and is not the same as a fracture.
c. A stretching or tearing of ligaments: A stretching or tearing of ligaments is known as a sprain, not a fracture.
d. A separation of bone fragments at a joint: This description is more in line with a dislocation, where the bone separates from its normal position at a joint.

In a comminuted fracture, the bone is broken into multiple pieces, which may require more complex treatment and longer healing time.

a. Greenstick fracture: A greenstick fracture involves the bone bending and partially breaking, commonly seen in children. It does not result in multiple pieces.
b. Transverse fracture: A transverse fracture occurs when the bone breaks straight across its long axis, but it does not involve multiple pieces.
d. Spiral fracture: A spiral fracture is characterized by a twisting or spiraling break along the bone, but it does not result in multiple pieces.

In a greenstick fracture, the bone bends and partially breaks, usually occurring in children due to the flexibility of their bones.

a. Transverse fracture: A transverse fracture occurs when the bone breaks straight across its long axis, not bending.
b. Oblique fracture: An oblique fracture involves a diagonal break, not bending and partial breaking.
d. Avulsion fracture: An avulsion fracture occurs when a piece of bone is torn away by a ligament or tendon, not bending and partial breaking.

High-impact sports are not a common cause of fractures in older adults. Fractures in this age group are more often associated with conditions such as osteoporosis and falls.

a. Osteoporosis: Osteoporosis is a common cause of fractures in older adults, as it leads to weakened bones.
b. Falls: Falls are a leading cause of fractures in older adults, as they may have decreased balance and mobility.
d. Decreased bone density: Decreased bone density, often seen in osteoporosis, contributes to fractures in older adults.

A closed fracture is a fracture where the skin remains intact over the fractured bone, and there is no open wound at the site of the fracture.

a. A fracture where the bone breaks through the skin: This type of fracture is known as an open or compound fracture, where the bone pierces through the skin.
b. A fracture where the bone is out of alignment: This type of fracture is known as a displaced fracture, where the bone fragments are not aligned properly.
c. A fracture where the bone is completely broken in two: A complete fracture refers to a fracture that results in two separate bone fragments, but it does not necessarily involve the skin.

A closed fracture is a fracture where the skin remains intact over the fractured bone, and there is no open wound at the site of the fracture.

a. A fracture where the bone breaks through the skin: This type of fracture is known as an open or compound fracture, where the bone pierces through the skin.
b. A fracture where the bone is out of alignment: This type of fracture is known as a displaced fracture, where the bone fragments are not aligned properly.
c. A fracture where the bone is completely broken in two: A complete fracture refers to a fracture that results in two separate bone fragments, but it does not necessarily involve the skin.

A transverse fracture occurs when the bone breaks straight across its long axis, perpendicular to the bone's length.

a. Greenstick fracture: A greenstick fracture involves the bone bending and partially breaking, usually seen in children. It does not break straight across the bone.
c. Oblique fracture: An oblique fracture involves a diagonal break, not straight across the bone's long axis.
d. Comminuted fracture: In a comminuted fracture, the bone breaks into multiple pieces, which is different from breaking straight across the bone.

A spiral fracture occurs due to twisting or rotational forces on the bone, resulting in a twisting break along the bone's length.

a. Greenstick fracture: A greenstick fracture involves the bone bending and partially breaking, usually seen in children. It is not caused by twisting forces.
b. Transverse fracture: A transverse fracture occurs when the bone breaks straight across its long axis, not due to twisting.
d. Comminuted fracture: In a comminuted fracture, the bone breaks into multiple pieces, which is not associated with twisting forces.

An avulsion fracture occurs when a piece of bone is torn away by a ligament or tendon, often due to a sudden and forceful contraction of the muscle.

a. Greenstick fracture: A greenstick fracture involves the bone bending and partially breaking, not being torn away by a ligament or tendon.
b. Transverse fracture: A transverse fracture occurs when the bone breaks straight across its long axis, not due to ligament or tendon forces.
d. Impacted fracture: An impacted fracture occurs when the bone fragments are driven into each other, often seen in a fall or compression injury, not involving ligament or tendon tears.

A greenstick fracture involves the bone bending and partially breaking, with one side of the bone being broken and the other side bent.

b. Transverse fracture: A transverse fracture occurs when the bone breaks straight across its long axis, not involving bending.
c. Oblique fracture: An oblique fracture involves a diagonal break, not breaking on one side and bending on the other.
d. Stress fracture: A stress fracture occurs due to repetitive stress on the bone, not involving one side breaking and the other side bending.

Regular exercise is not considered a risk factor for fractures. In fact, regular exercise, especially weight-bearing activities, can help improve bone density and reduce the risk of fractures.

a. Advanced age: Advanced age is a significant risk factor for fractures, as bone density tends to decrease with age, making bones more susceptible to fractures.
c. Osteoporosis: Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by low bone density and increased risk of fractures, particularly in postmenopausal women and older adults.
d. History of previous fractures: Having a history of previous fractures is considered a risk factor, as it may indicate underlying bone fragility and susceptibility to future fractures.

Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by weakened and porous bones, leading to an increased risk of fractures, especially in the hip, spine, and wrist.

a. Arthritis: Arthritis is a condition that involves joint inflammation and may cause joint pain and stiffness but does not directly weaken bones.
b. Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that affects the cartilage and joints, but it does not specifically increase the risk of fractures.
c. Osteomyelitis: Osteomyelitis is a bone infection that can lead to bone destruction and inflammation but does not directly weaken bones to the same extent as osteoporosis.

Adolescents, especially those involved in high-impact sports or activities, are at a higher risk of stress fractures due to their bones still growing and being more susceptible to repetitive stress injuries.

b. Young adults: Young adults may also be at risk of stress fractures, but adolescents are more vulnerable due to their ongoing bone growth and development.
c. Older adults: While older adults are at risk of fractures, stress fractures are more commonly seen in younger individuals engaged in high-impact activities.
d. Middle-aged adults: Middle-aged adults may experience fractures related to osteoporosis, trauma, or other factors, but they are not the primary population at risk for stress fractures.

Smoking is associated with an increased risk of fractures because it can negatively impact bone health, reduce bone density, and impair bone healing.

a. Adequate calcium intake: Adequate calcium intake is essential for maintaining strong bones and reducing the risk of fractures, so it is not associated with an increased risk.
b. Regular weight-bearing exercise: Regular weight-bearing exercise helps improve bone density and reduces fracture risk, so it is not associated with an increased risk.
d. Maintaining a healthy body weight: Maintaining a healthy body weight is beneficial for overall health, but it is not specifically associated with an increased risk of fractures.

Cancer is a risk factor for pathological fractures because cancer cells can weaken bones and cause fractures, even with minimal trauma.

a. Hypertension: Hypertension is a condition characterized by high blood pressure and is not directly associated with an increased risk of fractures.
b. Diabetes mellitus: Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder that affects blood sugar levels and does not directly increase the risk of fractures.
d. Asthma: Asthma is a respiratory condition that affects the airways and lungs and is not linked to an increased risk of fractures.

In a closed fracture, where the skin remains intact over the fractured bone, intense localized pain and tenderness at the fracture site are common symptoms. The skin acts as a barrier, preventing bone fragments from protruding through the skin.

a. Bone fragments protruding through the skin: This symptom is associated with an open or compound fracture, where the bone pierces through the skin.
b. Visible deformity at the fracture site: Visible deformity may occur in both closed and open fractures, but it is not specific to closed fractures.
d. Open wound with bleeding at the fracture site: An open wound with bleeding is characteristic of an open or compound fracture, not a closed fracture.

Numbness and tingling distal to the fracture, along with loss of pulses or capillary refill, may indicate compromised blood flow or nerve injury. It is a concerning sign that requires immediate medical attention.

a. Swelling and bruising at the fracture site: Swelling and bruising are common signs of inflammation and injury at the fracture site, but they are not as concerning as neurovascular compromise.
c. Mild localized pain with movement: Mild localized pain with movement is expected with a fracture, and it does not raise immediate concerns.
d. Warmth and redness at the fracture site: Warmth and redness are signs of inflammation and increased blood flow to the injured area, which is normal during the healing process.

: Stress fractures are small, hairline cracks in the bone that occur due to repetitive stress or overuse. They typically present with a gradual onset of localized pain that worsens with activity.

a. Severe pain and deformity: Severe pain and deformity are more commonly seen in acute fractures resulting from trauma or high-impact injuries, not stress fractures.
b. Sudden onset of swelling and bruising: Sudden onset of swelling and bruising is more indicative of acute fractures, not stress fractures.
d. Inability to bear weight on the affected limb: Inability to bear weight may be present in some fractures, but it is not a specific characteristic of stress fractures.

Colles' fracture is a type of distal radius fracture that results in angulation and swelling of the distal forearm near the wrist joint.

a. Pain and swelling of the ankle: Pain and swelling of the ankle are not related to a Colles' fracture, which occurs in the distal forearm, not the ankle.
b. Deformity and shortening of the affected limb: Deformity and shortening of the limb may occur in some fractures but are not specific to a Colles' fracture.
c. Loss of sensation and motor function distal to the fracture: Loss of sensation and motor function may occur in nerve injuries associated with fractures, but it is not a characteristic of Colles' fracture.

Severe pain, pallor (pale skin color), and loss of pulses distal to the fracture are concerning signs of compartment syndrome, a serious complication that requires immediate medical intervention.

a. Bruising and discoloration at the fracture site: Bruising and discoloration are common signs of inflammation and injury at the fracture site but are not specific to compartment syndrome.
b. Mild pain and swelling in the affected limb: Mild pain and swelling are expected with a fracture but do not raise immediate concerns for compartment syndrome.
c. Prolonged capillary refill distal to the fracture: Prolonged capillary refill time may indicate reduced blood flow but is not as concerning as the combination of severe pain, pallor, and loss of pulses seen in compartment syndrome.

Localized swelling and bruising are common signs of inflammation and injury at the fracture site. They may indicate the presence of a fracture, especially if the patient experienced trauma or a fall.

b. Warmth and redness at the site: Warmth and redness are signs of inflammation, but they are not specific to fractures and can occur in various musculoskeletal conditions.
c. Absence of pain with movement: Absence of pain with movement is not a typical finding in fractures. Fractures usually cause pain, especially with movement.
d. Increased range of motion at the joint: Increased range of motion may occur in some injuries, but it is not a reliable indicator of a fracture, especially if there is swelling and bruising present.

X-ray is the most appropriate initial diagnostic study for suspected fractures. It provides clear images of bones and can help identify the presence, location, and extent of the fracture.

b. MRI: MRI is useful for soft tissue imaging, but it may not be the first choice for initial evaluation of fractures. X-rays are more commonly used for immediate assessment.
c. CT scan: CT scan can provide detailed images of bones and soft tissues, but it is not typically the first-line imaging study for fractures. X-rays are more commonly performed first.
d. Ultrasound: Ultrasound is primarily used for imaging soft tissues and may not provide sufficient detail for evaluating fractures. X-rays are more appropriate for initial assessment.

Stress fractures are small, hairline cracks in the bone that occur due to repetitive stress or overuse. They typically present with a gradual onset of localized pain that worsens with activity.

a. Severe pain and visible deformity: Severe pain and visible deformity are more commonly seen in acute fractures resulting from trauma or high-impact injuries, not stress fractures.
b. Sudden onset of swelling and bruising: Sudden onset of swelling and bruising is more indicative of acute fractures, not stress fractures.
d. Inability to bear weight on the affected limb: Inability to bear weight may be present in some fractures, but it is not a specific characteristic of stress fractures.

Checking peripheral pulses is an essential part of the nursing assessment for a patient with a suspected fracture, especially in the extremity near the fracture site. It helps monitor circulation and ensures adequate blood flow to the injured area.

a. Assessing cognitive function: Assessing cognitive function is important for patients' overall health, but it is not directly related to a suspected fracture assessment.
b. Measuring blood pressure: Measuring blood pressure is part of the routine nursing assessment but is not specific to a suspected fracture.
d. Evaluating liver function: Evaluating liver function is not directly related to the assessment of a suspected fracture.

For a stable closed fracture, cast immobilization is a common treatment option. A cast helps support and protect the fractured bone, allowing it to heal properly.

a. Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF): ORIF is a surgical procedure used for complex or unstable fractures that cannot be treated with a cast alone.
b. Traction: Traction is applied to realign and stabilize fractures, but it is not typically the first-line treatment for stable closed fractures.
d. External fixation: External fixation involves using pins and an external frame to stabilize fractures, and it is typically used for complex or open fractures.

Closed reduction is a non-surgical procedure used to manually realign the fractured bone to its normal position without making an incision. It is often followed by cast immobilization or other forms of stabilization.

a. To surgically realign the fractured bone: Surgical realignment is typically performed through open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), not closed reduction.
b. To stabilize the fracture with internal fixation: Internal fixation involves the use of screws, plates, or rods to stabilize fractures, and it is not part of the closed reduction procedure.
c. To immobilize the fractured bone with a cast: Immobilization with a cast may follow closed reduction, but it is not the primary goal of the reduction procedure itself.

Early ambulation (walking) is important for preventing complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and muscle atrophy in patients with lower extremity fractures.

b. Bed rest for 24 hours: Prolonged bed rest can lead to complications such as muscle weakness, DVT, and pressure ulcers. Early ambulation is preferred to prevent these issues.
c. Avoidance of pain medication: Pain management is essential for patient comfort and mobility. Avoiding pain medication may hinder early ambulation and delay recovery.
d. Delayed wound dressing changes: Appropriate wound care is crucial for preventing infection and ensuring proper healing. Delayed wound dressing changes may increase the risk of infection.

Calcium supplements are commonly prescribed to promote bone healing in patients with fractures. Adequate calcium intake is essential for bone repair and regeneration.

a. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): NSAIDs may help manage pain and inflammation, but they do not directly promote bone healing and may even inhibit it in some cases.
b. Antibiotics: Antibiotics are prescribed to treat or prevent infection, but they do not play a direct role in bone healing unless an infection is present.
d. Bisphosphonates: Bisphosphonates are used to treat osteoporosis and other bone disorders but are not typically prescribed specifically for fracture healing.

Patients with external fixation require close monitoring of the pin sites for signs of infection, as they are at risk of developing pin site infections.

a. Providing passive range of motion exercises: Passive range of motion exercises may be appropriate in some cases, but they are not specific to external fixation management.
b. Changing the dressing daily: Dressing changes for external fixation are typically done as instructed by the healthcare provider, which may not necessarily be daily.
c. Loosening the fixation screws every 4 hours: Fixation screws should not be loosened without proper medical guidance, as this can compromise the stability of the external fixation device.

Numbness and tingling distal to the fracture, along with loss of pulses or capillary refill, may indicate neurovascular compromise. This is a serious complication that requires immediate medical attention to prevent potential tissue damage and complications.

a. Swelling and bruising at the fracture site: Swelling and bruising are common signs of inflammation and injury at the fracture site but do not require immediate medical attention unless accompanied by other concerning symptoms.
b. Mild localized pain with movement: Mild localized pain with movement is expected with a fracture and is not as concerning as neurovascular compromise.
d. Stiffness and limited range of motion in nearby joints: Stiffness and limited range of motion may occur after a fracture but are not as urgent as neurovascular compromise.

Infection is a complication of fractures that can occur when bacteria enter the body through an open wound or during surgery. It presents with pain, warmth, redness, and swelling at the site.

b. Compartment syndrome: Compartment syndrome is characterized by severe pain, pallor, and loss of pulses distal to the fracture site, not warmth and redness.
c. Delayed union: Delayed union refers to a fracture that takes longer than usual to heal, and it does not typically present with warmth and redness.
d. Osteomyelitis: Osteomyelitis is a bone infection that can develop as a complication of fractures, but it does not typically present with warmth and redness at the site.

Hypertrophic nonunion occurs when there is excessive callus formation at the fracture site, but the bone ends fail to unite. This can lead to persistent pain and limited function.

a. Nonunion: Nonunion occurs when the fractured bone fails to heal and fuse together, but it does not involve excessive callus formation.
b. Malunion: Malunion refers to a fracture that heals in an incorrect position or alignment, and it is not directly related to excessive callus formation.
c. Delayed union: Delayed union refers to a fracture that takes longer than usual to heal, and it is not specifically characterized by excessive callus formation.

Compartment syndrome is a severe condition that results from increased pressure within a closed space (compartment) in the body, such as the muscle compartment near the fracture site. It can lead to decreased blood flow, nerve compression, and tissue damage.

a. Infection: Infection is a complication of fractures caused by the introduction of bacteria into the body, and it does not involve increased pressure within a closed space.
c. Delayed union: Delayed union refers to a fracture that takes longer than usual to heal and is not related to increased pressure within a closed space.
d. Osteomyelitis: Osteomyelitis is a bone infection that can occur as a complication of fractures and is not specifically related to increased pressure within a closed space.

Nonunion occurs when the fractured bone fails to heal and fuse together despite appropriate treatment. It is associated with persistent pain and limited function.

b. Malunion: Malunion refers to a fracture that heals in an incorrect position or alignment, but it may or may not cause persistent pain and limited function.
c. Delayed union: Delayed union refers to a fracture that takes longer than usual to heal but eventually heals properly. It is not specifically associated with persistent pain and limited function.
d. Osteomyelitis: Osteomyelitis is a bone infection that can develop as a complication of fractures, but it may or may not cause persistent pain and limited function, depending on its severity and treatment response.

It is essential for the patient to avoid moving the cast to relieve itching as this can lead to skin breakdown, discomfort, and improper healing. The nurse should instruct the patient to use cool air or apply ice packs on the outside of the cast to alleviate itching without disturbing the cast's positioning.

b. Using a hairdryer on a warm setting to dry the inside of the cast is not recommended. The heat can cause discomfort and may not effectively dry the interior of the cast, leading to skin irritation and potential infection.
c. Sticking objects under the cast to scratch the skin can damage the skin and introduce bacteria, increasing the risk of infection. The patient should be instructed not to insert any objects under the cast.
d. Removing the cast if it becomes loose is not within the patient's scope of practice. If the cast becomes loose or uncomfortable, the patient should seek immediate medical attention for evaluation and adjustment by a healthcare professional.

It is crucial for the patient to understand the importance of partial weight-bearing on the affected limb during the healing process. Partial weight-bearing helps promote bone healing and prevents excessive stress on the fracture site, reducing the risk of complications.

a. Encouraging immediate full weight-bearing on the affected limb can lead to further damage to the healing bone and may delay the healing process.
c. Advising the patient to avoid putting any weight on the affected limb can result in muscle atrophy, decreased circulation, and joint stiffness. Some weight-bearing is necessary for proper bone healing.
d. Instructing the patient to use assistive devices only during walking is not enough to ensure appropriate weight-bearing. The patient should follow specific weight-bearing restrictions as advised by the healthcare provider, even when using assistive devices.

The patient should be instructed not to cover the cast with plastic when bathing or swimming, as moisture can weaken the cast and increase the risk of skin irritation and infection. The cast should be kept dry to maintain its structural integrity.

b. Applying heat directly to the cast to speed up drying is not recommended, as excessive heat can lead to discomfort and skin irritation. The cast should be air-dried or gently patted dry with a towel.
c. Using cotton swabs to clean the skin under the cast can introduce fibers into the cast and potentially irritate the skin. The nurse should advise the patient not to insert anything under the cast.
d. Keeping the cast exposed to air for long periods may lead to dirt and debris getting trapped in the cast and increasing the risk of infection. The patient should be cautious and avoid exposing the cast to dirt and contaminants.

It is crucial for the patient to regularly check for signs of skin irritation and redness around the cast edges. Skin irritation and redness can indicate pressure points or infection, and early identification can prevent complications.

a. Breaking off rough edges of the cast with scissors can damage the cast and compromise its structural integrity. The patient should not alter the cast in any way.
c. Using lotion to moisturize the skin under the cast is not recommended, as it can lead to skin irritation and may compromise the cast's fit and function. The skin under the cast should be kept dry and clean.
d. Using a heating pad to alleviate discomfort is not recommended, as excessive heat can lead to skin irritation and may weaken the cast. The patient should use ice packs or follow the healthcare provider's instructions for pain management.

Assessing the neurovascular status of the affected limb is the priority nursing consideration in a patient with a fracture. Checking for pulses, capillary refill, sensation, and motor function helps identify neurovascular compromise, which requires immediate intervention to prevent potential tissue damage and complications.

a. Monitoring the patient's pain level is essential, but it is not the priority over assessing neurovascular status. Pain management can be addressed after ensuring the limb's vascular and neurological integrity.
c. Evaluating the range of motion in nearby joints is important for overall assessment, but it is not as critical as assessing neurovascular status in a patient with a fracture.
d. Instructing the patient about cast care is necessary, but it is not the priority consideration when the patient's neurovascular status is at risk.

Using a lift sheet to reposition the patient is essential to prevent skin breakdown and pressure ulcers in a patient with long-term immobilization. This helps redistribute pressure on bony prominences and reduces the risk of skin damage.

a. Performing passive range of motion exercises regularly is important for preventing joint stiffness and muscle atrophy but may not directly prevent skin breakdown and pressure ulcers.
b. Applying petroleum jelly to the skin under the immobilization device is not recommended, as it can cause skin maceration and compromise the device's fit and function.
d. Providing a soft foam mattress overlay can enhance patient comfort but may not be sufficient to prevent skin breakdown and pressure ulcers in patients with prolonged immobilization.

: Educating the patient about signs of neurovascular compromise, such as changes in sensation, color, or temperature of the limb, is essential to ensure early detection of potential complications and timely intervention.

a. Encouraging the patient to bear full weight on the cast immediately is not recommended, as weight-bearing should follow the healthcare provider's instructions, which may involve partial weight-bearing initially.
b. Instructing the patient to elevate the casted limb above the heart can help reduce swelling but may not be the primary focus of discharge teaching for a newly applied cast.
c. Advising the patient to use a heating pad on the cast to relieve discomfort is not recommended, as excessive heat can damage the cast and increase the risk of skin irritation.

In a patient with an open fracture (compound fracture), there is a risk of infection due to the exposure of the bone to the external environment. The nurse should assess for signs of infection, such as redness, warmth, swelling, drainage, and increased pain at the fracture site.

a. Assessing joint range of motion is important, but it is not the priority in a patient with an open fracture, where preventing infection is the main concern.
b. Assessing neurological function in the unaffected limb is not directly related to the open fracture and may not be the priority at this time.
d. Assessing the quality of pain experienced by the patient is important for pain management but is not the priority over assessing for signs of infection in an open fracture.

Before applying a cast, the nurse should obtain a baseline neurovascular assessment of the extremity to establish normal function. This assessment will serve as a reference for comparison throughout the cast's application and during the healing process.

a. Elevating the extremity to reduce swelling is a valuable intervention but is not directly related to applying a cast. It can be performed later as part of post-cast application care.
b. Applying ice packs to the fracture site can help reduce swelling and pain but is not a step in preparing for the cast application.
c. Administering analgesics to manage pain is important, but obtaining a baseline neurovascular assessment is the priority before applying a cast.

A comminuted fracture occurs when the bone is crushed and shattered into multiple fragments, resulting in significant bone displacement and increased difficulty in alignment during the healing process.

a. Greenstick fracture: A greenstick fracture is an incomplete fracture where the bone bends and partially breaks, commonly seen in pediatric patients. It does not involve bone crushing or fragmentation.
c. Avulsion fracture: An avulsion fracture occurs when a small fragment of bone is pulled away from the main bone due to the forceful attachment of a tendon or ligament. It is not characterized by bone crushing or fragmentation.
d. Stress fracture: A stress fracture is a tiny crack in the bone caused by repetitive stress and overuse. It does not involve bone crushing or fragmentation.

A greenstick fracture is an incomplete fracture where the bone breaks incompletely, with one side bending and the other side breaking. It is commonly seen in children due to their more flexible bones.

b. Comminuted fracture: A comminuted fracture occurs when the bone is crushed and shattered into multiple fragments, but it does not involve one side bending and the other side breaking.
c. Spiral fracture: A spiral fracture occurs when the bone is twisted, resulting in a spiral-shaped fracture line. It does not involve one side bending and the other side breaking.
d. Oblique fracture: An oblique fracture occurs when the bone breaks at an angle, but it does not involve one side bending and the other side breaking.

A transverse fracture occurs when the bone is completely broken into two separate pieces at a right angle to the bone's long axis.

a. Greenstick fracture: A greenstick fracture is an incomplete fracture where the bone bends and partially breaks, but it does not result in two separate pieces of bone.
c. Impacted fracture: An impacted fracture occurs when the bone ends are forced into each other, commonly seen in long bones such as the femur. It does not involve the bone breaking into two separate pieces.
d. Spiral fracture: A spiral fracture occurs when the bone is twisted, resulting in a spiral-shaped fracture line. It does not involve the bone breaking into two separate pieces.

An open fracture, also known as a compound fracture, occurs when the bone penetrates the skin and is exposed to the external environment. It carries a higher risk of infection due to the exposure of the bone to external contaminants.

b. Closed fracture: A closed fracture, also known as a simple fracture, does not break the skin, and the bone remains enclosed within the body.
c. Impacted fracture: An impacted fracture occurs when the bone ends are forced into each other, commonly seen in long bones such as the femur. It does not involve the bone penetrating the skin.
d. Stress fracture: A stress fracture is a tiny crack in the bone caused by repetitive stress and overuse. It does not involve the bone penetrating the skin.

The type of fracture is essential in assessing the patient's readiness for weight-bearing. Some fractures require non-weight-bearing, partial weight-bearing, or full weight-bearing, depending on the bone's location, severity of the fracture, and treatment plan.

a. Age of the patient: The patient's age can influence fracture healing but is not the primary factor in determining weight-bearing status.
c. Pain level: Pain assessment is important for managing discomfort, but it is not the sole factor in determining weight-bearing status.
d. Patient's occupation: The patient's occupation may be considered in the treatment plan, but it is not the primary factor in determining weight-bearing status after a fracture.

X-ray (radiography) is the most common imaging modality used to diagnose fractures in the emergency department. X-rays can visualize the bone's structure and detect fractures, bone displacement, or other abnormalities.

a. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): MRI is useful for soft tissue evaluation but is not routinely used for initial fracture diagnosis in the emergency department.
b. Computed Tomography (CT): CT scans provide detailed cross-sectional images of bones and soft tissues, but they are not typically the first-line imaging for initial fracture assessment in the emergency department.
d. Ultrasound: Ultrasound is useful for certain soft tissue evaluations but is not commonly used for diagnosing fractures.

Regularly monitoring neurovascular status, including assessing pulses, capillary refill, sensation, and motor function, is essential for early detection of compartment syndrome, which can occur after a fracture. Compartment syndrome is a serious condition where increased pressure within the muscle compartment can compromise blood flow and nerve function.

a. Administering analgesics for pain relief is important, but it does not directly prevent compartment syndrome.
b. Elevating the affected limb above the heart can help reduce swelling but does not specifically prevent compartment syndrome.
c. Applying ice packs to the fracture site can help reduce pain and swelling but is not a preventive measure for compartment syndrome.

The primary goal of fracture reduction and immobilization is to promote bone realignment and healing. By aligning the fractured bone properly and immobilizing it with casts or splints, the healing process is facilitated, and bone stability is ensured.

a. Reducing pain and discomfort is an important aspect of fracture management but is not the primary goal of fracture reduction and immobilization.
c. Restoring full range of motion is an essential goal of fracture rehabilitation, but it comes after the bone has healed and the immobilization is removed.
d. Minimizing the risk of infection is crucial, particularly in open fractures, but it is not the primary goal of fracture reduction and immobilization.

Before moving or handling the affected limb, the nurse must assess for any signs of neurovascular compromise, such as changes in pulses, capillary refill, sensation, and motor function. This assessment helps identify potential vascular or nerve injuries and guides appropriate care to prevent complications.

a. Explaining the importance of immobilization to the patient is important but is not directly related to assessing for neurovascular compromise before moving the limb.

b. Applying a splint or cast to the affected limb is typically done after the initial assessment and diagnosis of the fracture, not before handling the limb.

d. Administering analgesics for pain relief is important, but it does not directly relate to assessing for neurovascular compromise before moving the limb.

The nurse should instruct the patient to avoid placing any objects under the cast to prevent skin irritation, damage to the cast, and potential introduction of bacteria or contaminants.

a. Encouraging the patient to frequently remove the cast for skin care is not recommended, as it can compromise the cast's fit and function and increase the risk of complications.
b. Advising the patient to use a hairdryer on the cast to relieve itching is not recommended, as it can cause skin maceration and damage the cast.
d. Educating the patient to keep the cast exposed to air for prolonged periods is not recommended, as dirt and debris can get trapped inside the cast, increasing the risk of infection. The patient should follow the healthcare provider's instructions for cast care.

A comminuted fracture is a type of fracture where the bone breaks into multiple fragments. This can occur due to a high-impact injury or significant force applied to the bone.

b. Greenstick fracture: A greenstick fracture is an incomplete fracture seen in children, where the bone bends and partially breaks on one side but remains intact on the other side.
c. Spiral fracture: A spiral fracture occurs when the bone is twisted, causing a spiral-shaped fracture line. It often results from a twisting force applied to the bone.
d. Transverse fracture: A transverse fracture is a type of fracture where the fracture line is perpendicular to the long axis of the bone.

An open fracture, also known as a compound fracture, occurs when the bone breaks and penetrates the skin, exposing the fracture site to the external environment. It carries an increased risk of infection and requires immediate medical attention.

a. Closed fracture: A closed fracture is a type of fracture where the bone breaks but does not penetrate the skin, keeping the fracture site enclosed.
b. Greenstick fracture: A greenstick fracture is an incomplete fracture seen in children, where the bone bends and partially breaks on one side but remains intact on the other side.
d. Stress fracture: A stress fracture is a small crack or incomplete break in the bone, often caused by repetitive stress and overuse.

A greenstick fracture is an incomplete fracture that commonly occurs in children due to their bones being more pliable and flexible than adult bones. In a greenstick fracture, one side of the bone bends and partially breaks, while the other side remains intact.

a. Spiral fracture: A spiral fracture occurs when the bone is twisted, causing a spiral-shaped fracture line. It often results from a twisting force applied to the bone and can occur in both children and adults.
c. Transverse fracture: A transverse fracture is a type of fracture where the fracture line is perpendicular to the long axis of the bone and can occur in both children and adults.
d. Oblique fracture: An oblique fracture is a type of fracture where the fracture line is diagonal to the long axis of the bone and can occur in both children and adults.

A compression fracture is commonly seen in osteoporotic bones, especially in older adults, due to decreased bone density and strength. It occurs when the bone is compressed and collapses, often resulting from a fall or minor trauma.

b. Avulsion fracture: An avulsion fracture occurs when a small piece of bone is torn away from the main bone due to the pull of a ligament or tendon. It can happen in individuals of all ages.
c. Greenstick fracture: A greenstick fracture is an incomplete fracture seen in children, where the bone bends and partially breaks on one side but remains intact on the other side.
d. Impacted fracture: An impacted fracture occurs when the broken ends of the bone are driven into each other, often seen in long bones like the femur or humerus. It can occur in individuals of all ages.

An oblique fracture involves a break in the bone that is at an angle to the long axis of the bone. It is often the result of a diagonal force applied to the bone.

b. Spiral fracture: A spiral fracture occurs when the bone is twisted, causing a spiral-shaped fracture line. It often results from a twisting force applied to the bone and is not specifically at an angle to the long axis of the bone.
c. Transverse fracture: A transverse fracture is a type of fracture where the fracture line is perpendicular to the long axis of the bone and is not at an angle.
d. Greenstick fracture: A greenstick fracture is an incomplete fracture seen in children, where the bone bends and partially breaks on one side but remains intact on the other side. It is not specifically at an angle to the long axis of the bone.