Clinical Findings
- Groin, knee, or hip pain.
- Inability to bear weight on affected extremity.
- Shortened and externally rotated leg.
- Inability to move affected leg.
Possible Causes: Osteoporosis, trauma.
Collaborative Management
- If Pt has experienced trauma, perform a primary survey, and stabilize airway, breathing, and circulation (ABC). Then perform a secondary survey to detect associated injuries.
- Do not move leg; allow Pt to maintain position of comfort.
- Inspect and palpate for deformity, hematoma, laceration, and asymmetry.
- Call four to six staff members to help transfer Pt from stretcher to bed or, if Pt has fallen, to lift Pt into bed.
- Assess VS and LOC, and observe for S/S of shock such as cool and clammy skin, AMS, and decreased UOblood loss from hip fracture can be as much as 1,500 mL.
- Inspect affected leg for shortening and rotation compared with opposite leg.
- Do not assess ROM unless x-ray is negative.
- Assess distal CSMcirculation, sensation, and ability to move toes.
- Administer pain medication as ordered once head trauma ruled out.
- Avoid oral medications because Pt may need surgery.
- Monitor Pts response to pain management.
- Insert a urinary catheter and monitor UO.
- Assist with setup and application of traction.
- Prepare Pt for surgery.