Nursing Tips: Musculoskeletal

Positional plagiocephaly is cranial asymmetry caused by prolonged pressure on one side of the skull. A child with this diagnosis may require helmet therapy, where a custom-made helmet is worn up to 23 hours per day for ~ 3 months.

A patient who experienced a long-bone fracture is at risk for a fat embolism. Immediately report any dyspnea, confusion, tachypnea, tachycardia, or chest pain to the provider.

A child with Osteogenesis Imperfecta may exhibit a blue color of the sclera. Be sure to report this finding to the provider for further evaluation.

Colchicine is a medication used to treat an acute gout attack.

For symptoms of compartment syndrome, remember the 5Ps: Paresthesia, Paralysis, Pallor, Pulselessness, Intense Pain

Alendronate is a bisphosphonate used to treat osteoporosis. Key side effect is esophagitis. HINT: "Alen drones on and on about his esophagitis."

Baclofen is a centrally acting muscle relaxant. If you pull out your BACK, you might need BAClofen.

How to remember that Rheumatoid Arthritis causes swan neck and boutonniere deformities

Expected labs with Rheumatoid Arthritis: Positive Rheumatoid Factor (RF) antibody and Positive ANA titer

If your patient has a halo traction device in place, make sure wrench/screwdriver are attached to the vest to release patient from the device in the event of an emergency.

Prevent hip flexion contractures in patients with a BKA (below-the-knee amputation): Have patient lie prone every 3-4 hrs for 20-30 min.

Malignant hyperthermia is a life-threatening complication due to certain general anesthesia medications. Symptoms: Muscle rigidity, tachycardia, fever, dysrhythmias, tachypnea, hypotension, cyanosis.

To prevent joint dislocation after a total hip arthroplasty, do not allow hip flexion > 90°.

Bone loss begins at 35 years old. In order to prevent osteoporosis, individuals should engage in weight-bearing exercises. FYI - swimming is NOT weight-bearing.