ASSIGNMENT ON

FRACTURE OF RADIUS
Subject: Medical Surgical Nursing

Submitted To:
Mr. Siddappa K J
HOD of Medical surgical nursing
KTG College Of Nursing
Bengaluru

Submitted By:
Mr. Lokesha P S
1st year MSc Nursing
KTG College of Nursing
Bengaluru

Date of submission:

Introduction:
Fractures of the radius are common orthopedic injuries that can
significantly impact a patient's functional ability and quality of life. As
nursing professionals, it is crucial to understand the anatomy,
etiology, clinical manifestations, and nursing care associated with
radius fractures.
Anatomy and Physiology of the Radius:
The radius is one of the two long bones of the forearm, running
parallel to the ulna. It plays a vital role in supporting the structure of
the forearm and facilitating various movements of the hand and
wrist.

Anatomy of the Radius:

 1. Structure:
 The radius is located on the lateral (thumb) side of the
forearm.
 It extends from the lateral side of the elbow joint to the
wrist joint.
 Proximally, it articulates with the humerus at the radial
head, and distally, it articulates with the carpal bones at
the wrist.
2. Articulations:
 The proximal end of the radius forms the radial head,
which articulates with the capitulum of the humerus,
allowing for rotational movements of the forearm.
 The distal end of the radius articulates with the carpal
bones (specifically the scaphoid and lunate) at the wrist
joint.
Function:
1. Pronation and Supination:
 The radius and ulna work together to enable pronation
(turning the palm down) and supination (turning the palm
up) of the hand.
 During pronation, the radius rotates over the ulna, and
during supination, the radius returns to its original
position.
2. Flexion and Extension:
 The radius, along with the ulna, allows for flexion
(bending) and extension (straightening) of the forearm at
the elbow joint.
3. Contribution to Grip Strength:
  The radius is involved in transmitting forces generated by
the muscles of the forearm to the hand, contributing to
grip strength.
4. Support for Soft Tissues:
 The radius provides attachment points for various
muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the forearm,
contributing to the stability and function of the wrist and
hand.
Blood Supply and Innervation:
1. Blood Supply:
 The blood supply to the radius comes from branches of
the radial and ulnar arteries.
2. Innervation:
 Nerves that innervate the radius include branches of the
radial nerve, which is responsible for motor function and
sensation in the posterior aspect of the forearm and hand.
Bone Development and Remodeling:
1. Growth Plates:
 Like other long bones, the radius has growth plates
(epiphyseal plates) that allow for longitudinal growth
during childhood and adolescence.
2. Remodeling:
 Bone remodeling is a continuous process involving the
resorption of old bone tissue by osteoclasts and the
formation of new bone tissue by osteoblasts. This process
helps maintain bone strength and adapt to changing
mechanical demands.
 A fracture of the radius can occur due to trauma, falls, or direct
impact.

Etiology:
1. Trauma: Most radius fractures result from a fall onto an
outstretched hand.
2. Sports Injuries: Athletes, particularly those involved in contact
sports or activities that carry a risk of falling, may experience
radius fractures.
3. Motor Vehicle Accidents: High-impact accidents can lead to
fractures of the radius.
4. Osteoporosis: Weakened bones due to conditions like
osteoporosis may make an individual more susceptible to
fractures, including those of the radius.
Clinical Manifestations:
1. Pain: Patients typically experience localized pain around the
wrist or forearm.
2. Swelling: Edema may be present at the site of the fracture.
3. Deformity: Depending on the type and severity of the fracture,
a visible deformity or displacement may occur.
 4. Limited Range of Motion: Patients may have difficulty moving
the affected arm and wrist.
5. Bruising: Ecchymosis or bruising may develop around the
injured area.
Nursing management
Assessment:
 Pain Assessment:
 Regularly assess and document the patient's pain levels
using appropriate pain scales.
 Monitor for factors that may exacerbate pain, such as
movement or touch.
 Neurovascular Assessment:
 Monitor and document neurovascular status, including
circulation, sensation, and motor function of the affected
extremity.
 Check for signs of compartment syndrome, such as
increased pain, swelling, or changes in sensation.
 Functional Assessment:
 Evaluate the impact of the fracture on the patient's ability
to perform activities of daily living.
 Assess the patient's emotional and psychological response
to the injury.
2. Interventions:
 Pain Management:
 Administer prescribed analgesics as ordered and assess
the effectiveness of pain relief.
 Implement non-pharmacological pain relief methods, such
as positioning and relaxation techniques.
  Immobilization:
 Ensure proper splinting or casting to maintain the
alignment of the fractured radius.
 Educate the patient on the importance of immobilization
and provide instructions on cast care.
 Elevation and Ice:
 Elevate the affected arm to reduce swelling.
 Apply ice as prescribed to the injured area during the
initial stages to minimize swelling and provide pain relief.
 Collaboration with Physical Therapy:
 Coordinate with physical therapy to facilitate early
mobilization and rehabilitation.
 Provide assistance and support during physical therapy
sessions.
 Patient Education:
 Educate the patient on the nature of the fracture,
expected outcomes, and the importance of following the
prescribed treatment plan.
 Provide instructions on self-care, including cast care,
hygiene, and skin inspection.
 Psychosocial Support:
 Address the emotional and psychological impact of the
fracture on the patient.
 Encourage open communication and provide resources for
coping and support.
3. Monitoring and Evaluation:
 Complication Monitoring:
  Monitor for signs of complications, such as infection,
neurovascular compromise, or delayed healing.
 Report any concerning findings to the healthcare provider
promptly.
 Healing Progress:
 Assess and document the progress of the fracture healing
process.
 Collaborate with the healthcare team to adjust the
treatment plan as needed based on the patient's
response.

BIBLIOGRAPHY
 . BT Basavanthappa, Ist Edition 2o11, Essential of Medical
Surgical Nursing.
 . Brunner and suddarth 's textbook, 8th edition, of medical
and surgical nursing.
 .Panwar P.K., Fourth Edition( 2015), Text Book of Medical
Surgical Nursing, published by Virendra kumar
arya, ( New Delhi).