Fractures
What is it?
Fractures in children can occur from a variety of causes, including trauma, sports injuries, falls, and accidents. Some fractures are more serious than others and may require surgery or immobilization with a cast or brace.
Symptoms
 Pain, swelling, bruising, warmth, tenderness at the injury site, limited range of motion, stiffness, or difficulty moving the affected limb, the limb may appear deformed, out of place, or visibly shorter than the unaffected limb, ecchymosis, edema, muscle spasms, and crepitation.
Treatment: Cast
- Examine cast for pressure areas
- Make sure no rough material in contact with the skin, petal the edges
- A spica cast may need to be taped with waterproof material around the perineum.
- Monitor circulation or neurovascular status (#1 priority): numbness, tingling, coolness, decreased pulse, pallor, edema.
- Do not put anything under the cast
- Assess for compartment syndrome
Treatment: Traction
- Traction is used to stabilized a fracture before surgery
- Assess circulation
- Maintain skin integrity
- Pain management
- Ensure body alignment
- Provide distraction/activities
- Make sure weights hang freely
Compartment syndrome is a serious medical condition where pressure in a muscle compartment increases, compressing nerves and blood vessels. It mostly affects legs, arms, and abdomen, causing severe pain, swelling, numbness, and muscle weakness. If left untreated, it can lead to permanent damage of muscles and nerves. Treatment options include surgical decompression or fasciotomy to relieve pressure and restore blood flow.