Open fractures (ouch!)
- An open fracture is one in which damage also involves the skin and/or mucous membranes; also known as a compound fracture.
- Risks of open fractures include osteomyelitis, tetanus, and gas gangrene.
- Primary nursing objectives include: preventing infection of wound, tissue, and bone and to promote healing; administering prescribed IV antibiotics and tetanus toxoid if indicated.
- Other nursing interventions include: wound irrigation; sterile dressing changes; elevation of extremity to minimize edema.
- Accurate and frequent assessment of neurovascular status, vitals, and the wound is necessary to monitor for s/s of infection or other complications.
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