Ch. 10 - Musculoskeletal Injuries

Injuries to the musculoskeletal system occur in a variety of ways. They are most commonly caused by forces generated by mechanical energy, but they can also result from exposure to excessive heat, chemicals, or electricity. Injuries to muscles and related tissues such as tendons and ligaments are technically soft tissue injuries, but the close relationship between these tissues and the skeleton make it more useful to consider musculoskeletal injuries separately.

Although musculoskeletal injuries are typically painful, they are rarely life-threatening. However, when not recognized and treated promptly, they can result in permanent disability or death. Musculoskeletal injuries are especially dangerous when a bone breaks and the fractured ends cause damage to other internal structures such as vital organs or blood vessels. They are also dangerous when a displaced part of the bone puts pressure on blood vessels, resulting in vascular compromise and tissue death. In these cases, the soft tissue injury is the life-threatening condition, but the cause is the fracture.

Transcript

1. Ch 10 – Pg 195
2. Types of Musculoskeletal Injuries Ch 10 – Pg 196-197
3. S&S of Musculoskeletal Injuries 1. Pain 2. Swelling 3. Deformity 4. Discolouration 5. Inability to use the affected part normally Ch 10 – Pg 201-202
4. Care for Musculoskeletal Injuries Rapid Transport Category in the following situations: • Involves a hemorrhage • Involves trauma to the skull or spine • Impairs the patient’s respiration • Severe angulation with reduction in or loss of sensation and/or circulation • Multiple major musculoskeletal injuries suspected Ch 10 – Pg 203
5. General Care RICE Principle: Rest • Avoid unnecessary actions Immobilize • Splint, sling, or bandage Cold • Ice or cold pack Elevate • Helps to reduce swelling Ch 10 – Pg 203-204
6. Splints Types of Splints: 1. Soft 2. Rigid 3. Anatomical 4. Traction Ch 10 – Pg 198
7. Splints
8. How to Splint • Use appropriate equipment • Splint only if it can be done without causing further injury • Immobilize the joints above and below • Check for normal circulation and sensation before and after • Familiarize yourself with the manufacturer’s directions • Before splinting, cover any open wounds with dressing and bandage • While applying, support the injured body part • Pad the splint Ch 10 – Pg 199-200
9. Shoulder Dislocations
10. Sling Used to support an upper extremity if a musculoskeletal injury damages the usual support structures. Commercial slings are available, and slings may be made using a triangular bandage. Ch 10 – Pg 201