International journal of orthopaedic and trauma nursing
-
Int J Orthop Trauma Nurs · Nov 2016
Comparative StudyOrthopaedic nursing challenges in poly-traumatised patient management: A critical analysis of an Orthopaedic and Trauma Unit.
Trauma is the most frequent cause of death in people under 40 years old. It is an important problem not only because of the high mortality but also because of the consequential disability that can lead to serious economic consequences. ⋯ This study demonstrates the use of theoretical and practical tools for the evaluation and management of poly-traumatised patients during their hospital stay. We recommend the use of both proposed tools: the general algorithm and the flow-chart for the management of the poly-trauma patient, as they allow identification of barriers and facilitators related to the implementation of international guidelines, currently well-defined for Emergency Departments but not yet for Orthopaedic Units.
-
Int J Orthop Trauma Nurs · May 2015
Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter StudyBowel management post major joint arthroplasty: results from a randomised controlled trial.
To evaluate the effect of a new post-operative bowel protocol in total hip and total knee replacement patients. ⋯ These results support the use of the Murdoch Bowel Protocol(®) for hip and knee replacement patients and may be relevant for other patient groups who experience opioid induced bowel dysfunction.
-
Int J Orthop Trauma Nurs · May 2015
Developing a programme of patient 'streaming' in an emergency department.
Orthopaedic and musculoskeletal injuries are commonly identified in the emergency department (ED). Whilst much orthopaedic trauma literature focuses on fractures of the proximal femur, raising key issues such as length of stay and timely discharge, the start of the patients' journey is just as important in ensuring an appropriate assessment and a smooth transition through each stage of care. In the UK targets have been set for proximal hip fractured patients to attend theatre within 48 hours of admission, if fit. ⋯ The emergency department triage system has been used in the UK in its latest format since 2001, yet elderly patients with painful Colles fractures find they wait for specialist attention in a linear queue, possibly over extended lengths of time. This short paper explores how 'streaming' patients in one local ED has improved waiting/treatment times, and identified the fact that in some months (December 2012), 1 in 3 attendees present with a musculoskeletal problem. Using audit data collected over the last four years the benefits of 'streaming' patients is evident.