Home > Nancy Caroline's Emergency Care in the Streets, Seventh Edition Chapter 37: Orthopaedic Trauma Chapter 37Orthopaedic TraumaUnit SummaryUpon completion
Nancy Caroline’s Emergency Care in the Streets, Seventh Edition
Chapter 37: Orthopaedic Trauma
Chapter 37
Orthopaedic Trauma
Unit Summary
Upon completion of this chapter and related course assignments, students will be able to recognize, assess, and manage open and closed fractures, as well as understand the pathophysiology associated with each type. They will be able to identify, assess, and manage disolocations, as well as other ligament and tendon injuries. Students will understand the pathophysiology of pelvic fractures, be able to stabilize the injury, and provide treatment to prevent shock. They will be able to identify pediatric-specific considerations for musculoskeletal trauma and how to apply those when managing these patients. Students will be able to describe the procedure for reduction of shoulder, finger, or ankle dislocations and fractures. They will be able to identify the need for rapid intervention and transport when dealing with musculoskeletal trauma, formulate a field impression, and implement a comprehensive treatment plan for these patients. Students will be able to describe the anatomy, pathophysiology, and management of common or major nontraumatic musculoskeletal disorders. They will be able to identify when and demonstrate how to perform a motor and sensory exam as well how to properly splint an injured extremity.
National EMS Education Standard Competencies
Trauma
Integrates assessment findings with principles of epidemiology and pathophysiology to formulate a field impression to implement a comprehensive treatment/disposition plan for an acutely injured patient.
Orthopaedic Trauma
Recognition and management of
• Open fractures (pp 1764-1766)
• Closed fractures (pp 1764-1766)
• Dislocations (pp 1766-1768)
• Amputations (p 1769)
Pathophysiology, assessment, and management of
• Upper and lower extremity orthopaedic trauma ( p 1754)
• Open fractures (pp 1764-1766; 1782-1789)
• Closed fractures (pp 1764-1766; 1782-1789)
• Dislocations (pp 1766-1768; 1789-1792)
• Sprains/strains (p 1768)
• Pelvic fractures (pp 1784-1786)
• Amputations/replantation (p 1769)
• Compartment syndrome (pp 1780-1781)
• Pediatric fractures (p 1779)
• Tendon laceration/transection/rupture (Achilles and patellar) (pp 1768; 1792)
Medicine
Integrates assessment findings with principles of epidemiology and pathophysiology to formulate a field impression and implement a comprehensive treatment/disposition plan for a patient with a medical complaint.
Nontraumatic Musculoskeletal Disorders
Anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology, assessment, and management of
• Nontraumatic fractures (pp 1792-1795)
Anatomy, physiology, epidemiology, pathophysiology, psychosocial impact, presentations, prognosis, and management of common or major nontraumatic musculoskeletal disorders
• Disorders of the spine (p 1793)
• Joint abnormalities (pp 1793-1794)
• Muscle abnormalities (p 1794)
• Overuse syndromes (pp 1794-1795)
Knowledge Objectives
Skills Objectives
Readings and Preparation
• Review all instructional materials including Chapter 37 of Nancy Caroline’s Emergency Care in the Streets, Seventh Edition, and all related presentation support materials.
• Review local EMS protocols and equipment for management of orthopedic injuries. Specifically identify protocol specific management for pain from orthopedic injuries and limitations for use.
• Identify local protocols to address field amputations and activation plans that should be discussed.
• Develop patient scenario cards to use in group skill practice and discussions.
Support Materials
• Lecture PowerPoint presentation
• Case Study PowerPoint presentation
• Skill Drill PowerPoint presentations
• Skill Evaluation Sheets
• Use a full-size skeleton model, various muscle and bone anatomic models, and musculoskeletal charts to reinforce material during class lectures and exercises.
• Prepare immobilization devices for use during skill practice for splinting of injured extremities. Confirm that course equipment is consistent with equipment found at EMS agencies where students may complete clinical rotations or field internships.
Enhancements
• Direct students to visit the companion website to Nancy Caroline’s Emergency Care in the Streets, Seventh Edition, at http://www.paramedic.emszone.com for online activities.
• Contact a local orthopedic practice to identify a guest speaker for discussion of stabilization and management of orthopedic injuries in the prehospital setting.
• Contact a local sports medicine practice to identify a guest speaker for discussion of sports-related orthopedic injuries seen in the prehospital setting.
• Contact a local radiologist to identify a guest speaker that may be able to present radiological images of orthopedic injuries for students with explanations of pathophysiological and anatomical changes.
Content connections: Orthopaedic trauma has the potential to be life threatening depending on the type and extent of injury. Students should be encouraged to review signs and symptoms related to blood volume loss and risk of shock.
Pharmacology should be reviewed for those medications appropriate to manage pain in the orthopaedic injury patient.
Students should consider the pharmacokinetics of medications as they relate to the geriatric patient, patients with renal insufficiency/failure, patients with impaired liver function, and patients that may have used or consumed alcohol and/or drugs.
Cultural considerations: Students should be reminded of the need to consider how age-related changes may affect normal anatomy and physiology, as well as range of motion and function of the musculoskeletal system in the geriatric patient.
Students will need to consider how comorbid factors can influence the ability of the geriatric patient to feel pain and how this may impede their ability to conduct a motor and sensory exam.
Students should be reminded of the need to consider how pain medication may affect the geriatric patient and whether there is potential for medication interactions with undesirable or dangerous side effects.
The pediatric patient with musculoskeletal trauma should be assessed for consistency between the stated cause of injury with the mechanism and assessed injury with consideration of the age of the patient. Old musculoskeletal injuries should be noted as well.
Teaching Tips
• Use a skeleton model as you cover the section of the chapter on anatomy and physiology of the musculoskeletal system. Having visual aids will help students comprehend how the bones and joints are formed and identify potential injuries based on normal function.
• Many of the splints used to treat orthopaedic injuries may not be routinely used by students. A refresher in how to apply splints and which injuries each is appropriate for may assist students who have not applied these as an EMT.
• Incorporate use of the pictures in the text and additional images available to assist students with recognizing presentation of the various musculoskeletal injuries.
• When performing skill practice, incorporating moulaged patients may assist students with identifying the type of injury and how to select the most appropriate device for splinting.
Unit Activities
Writing activities: Assign students the topic of the use of physical therapy for treatment of nontraumatic musculoskeletal disorders. You may want to assign different disorders for students to research. Ask that they submit their findings in a short paper.
Student presentations: Assign students various musculoskeletal injuries. Have them research pictures to share with the class of their injury. Using the skeleton model, ask that they identify common locations of these injuries, as well as causes.
Group activities: Divide the class into groups of four to five students. Establish stations for practicing application of various splints. Have the groups rotate through each station to demonstrate proper use of the splints.
Visual thinking: Label a skeleton with numbers on various bones. Have students review these and record the correct medical name of the bone on an answer sheet. Alternate: Develop a handout of a skeleton and identify the bones you have selected with numbers. Have students correctly record the medical name of the bones identified.
Medical terminology: Locate or create a puzzle such as a crossword or word search that requires students to identify the proper medical terms for bones, joints, disorders of the musculoskeletal system, and movements of the musculoskeletal system.
Pre-Lecture
“You are the Medic” is a progressive case study that encourages critical-thinking skills.
Direct students to read the “You are the Medic” scenario found throughout Chapter 37.
• You may wish to assign students to a partner or a group. Direct them to review the discussion questions at the end of the scenario and prepare a response to each question. Facilitate a class dialogue centered on the discussion questions and the Patient Care Report.
• You may also use this as an individual activity and ask students to turn in their comments on a separate piece of paper.
Lecture
I. Introduction
A. Musculoskeletal injuries are one of the most common reasons for seeking medication attention.
1. These injuries are usually easily identifiable because of associated pain, swelling, and deformity.
2. They are rarely fatal, but may result in short- or long-term disability.
3. Regardless of the appearance of the injury, always check for life-threatening issues first.
II. Anatomy and Physiology of the Musculoskeletal System
A. Functions of the musculoskeletal system
1. Supports the soft tissues of the body, giving the body shape and posture
2. Generates movement
a. When a muscle contracts, the force is transferred to a bone on the opposite side of the joint.
3. Protects fragile organs
and structures
a. The skull protects the brain.
b. The rib cage protects the heart and lungs.
c. The spinal column protects the spinal cord.
4. Hematopoiesis: Process of generating blood cells
a. Each day new red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets are produced to replace those lost or dysfunctional.
B. The body’s scaffolding: The skeleton
1. The skeleton is divided into two distinct parts:
a. Axial skeleton
i. Vertebral column
ii. Skull
(a) Cranium
(b) Basilar skull
(c) Face
(d) Inner ear
iii. Rib cage
iv. Spinal column
(a) 7 cervical vertebrae
(b) 12 thoracic vertebrae
(c) 5 lumbar vertebrae
(d) 5 sacral vertebrae
(e) 4 coccygeal vertebrae
b. Appendicular skeleton
i. Pectoral girdle
ii. Pelvic girdle
iii. Upper and lower extremities
2. Shoulder and upper extremities
a. The pectoral girdle (shoulder girdle) is composed of:
i. Two scapulae (shoulder blades)
(a) Flat triangular bones held to the ribcage by powerful muscles
ii. Two clavicles (collarbone)
(a) Slender, S-shaped bones attached by the ligaments to the sternum and the acromion
b. The upper extremity joins the shoulder girdle at the glenohumeral joint.
i. The proximal portion contains the humerus.
ii. The humerus joins with the scapula and forearm to make the hinged elbow joint.
c. The forearm is made up of the radius and ulna.
i. The radius is larger and is on the thumb side.
ii. The ulna is narrow and is on the little-finger side.
(a) Serves as the pivot around which the radius turns at the wrist to rotate the palm upward (supination) or downward (pronation)
d. The hand consists of three sets of bones:
i. Wrist bones (carpals)
ii. Hand bones (metacarpals)
iii. Finger bones (phalanges)
3. Pelvis and lower extremities
a. The pelvic girdle is three separate bones fused together
i. Ischium
ii. Ilium
iii. Pubis
b. The two iliac bones are joined posteriorly to the sacrum at the sacroiliac joints
c. The two pubic bones are connected anteriorly to one another at the pubic symphysis.
d. The lower extremity comprises the bones of the thigh, leg, and foot.
i. Femur: Thighbone, extends from pelvis to knee
ii. Acetabulum: Cup-shaped cavity in which the rounded edge of the femur rotates
iii. Fibula: Smaller of the two bones of the lower leg
iv. Tibia: Forms the interior component on the knee joint
v. Patella: Knee cap, extends knee joint
e. The foot has three classes of bones.
i. Ankle bones (tarsals)
(a) Largest is the calcaneus
ii. Foot bones (metatarsals)
iii. Toes bones (phalanges)
C. Characteristics and composition of bone
1. Bones shapes
a. Long bones are longer than they are wide.
i. Femur
ii. Humerus
iii. Tibia
iv. Fibula
v. Radius
vi. Ulna
b. Short bones are nearly as wide as they are long.
i. Phalanges
ii. Metacarpals
iii. Metatarsals
c. Flat bones are thin and broad.
i. Sternum
ii. Ribs
iii. Scapulae
iv. Skull
d. Irregular bones have a shape that is designed to serve a certain function.
i. Bones of the vertebral column
ii. Mandible
e. Round bones are found in proximity to a joint and help with movement.
i. Patella
2. Typical long bone architecture
a. The growth plate (physis) allows bones to grow to long lengths.
i. Closes when a child becomes an adult and bones mature
b. There are three regions of the long bone:
i. Diaphysis
ii. Epiphysis
iii. Metaphysis
c. Articular surfaces of the long bone join other bones, forming articulations (joints).
i. These regions are covered by cartilage that protects them from wear and tear.
ii. Bone not covered by cartilage is protected by the periosteum.
(a) Dense membrane containing important capillaries and cells for bone repair and maintenance
3. Age-associated changes in bone
a. Bones decrease in density after age 35 years, leading to:
i. Loss of height
ii. Changes in facial structure
b. Osteoporosis is a significant decrease in bone density
i. Accelerated by menopause in women
ii. Associated with a high risk of fracture
c. Muscles, cartilage, and other connective tissues age along with bone.
i. Increased risk of disk herniation and arthritis
D. Joints
1. Formed when two bones come together
a. Some are fused and allow for no motion.
b. Others allow for motion by permitting movement between the two bones.
i. Flexion
ii. Extension
iii. Abduction
iv. Adduction
v. Rotation
vi. Circumduction
vii. Pronation
viii. Supination
2. Types of joints
a. Fibrous (synarthroses or fused) joints contain dense fibrous tissue that doesn’t allow for movement.
i. Skull bones
ii. Distal tibiofibular joint
b. Cartilaginous (amphiarthroses) joints allow for very minimal movement between bones.
i. Pubic symphysis
ii. Joints connecting ribs to sternum
c. Synovial (diarthroses) joints are the most mobile.
i. Surrounded by the joint capsule
ii. Bones are held in place by ligaments.
iii. Articular cartilage and synovial membrane secrete fluid for lubrication.
3. Bursa
a. Padlike sac or cavity in the connective tissue
i. Usually located near a joint
ii. Contains fluid that helps reduce friction between tendons and bones, or tendons and ligaments
b. Bursitis: Inflammation of a bursa
E. Skeletal connecting and supporting structures
1. Tendons connect muscle to bone.
2. Ligaments connect bone to bone
a. Maintain joint stability
b. Determine degree of joint motion
3. Cartilage forms the smooth surface over bone ends where they articulate.
a. Provides cushioning between vertebrae
b. Gives structure to the nose and external ear
c. Forms the framework of the larynx and trachea
d. Serves as the model for the formation of the skeleton in children
F. The moving forces: muscles
1. There are three types of muscle:
a. Cardiac muscle
b. Skeletal muscle
c. Smooth muscle
2. Skeletal muscle
a. Also known as voluntary or striated muscle
i. Contractions are under voluntary control.
ii. Striations can be seen during microscopic examination.
b. Includes all muscles attached to the skeleton
i. Allows the body to maintain its posture and to sit or stand
ii. Varies greatly in size and shape
iii. Has a very rich blood supply
(a) Bleeds significantly when injured.
c. Profoundly affected by the amount of work to which they are subjected
i. Unused muscles tend to atrophy (shrink or waste away)
ii. Training promotes hypertrophy (increase in size)
d. Skeletal muscles are attached to bones by tendons.
i. Tendons create a pulling force between two bones when a muscle contracts.
ii. Muscle contraction requires energy derived from the metabolism of glucose.
(a) Muscle fatigue occurs when the energy supply is inadequate to meet the energy demands.
G. Muscle innervation
1. Innervation of the skeletal muscles occurs when somatic motor neurons transmit electrical stimuli, causing muscle to contract.
a. Motor units—composed of neurons and muscles—respond by either contracting as forcefully as possible or not at all.
b. Recruitment is a process by which multiple neurons can come together to create a more forceful contraction.
2. Innervation of the upper extremities arises from the brachial plexus.
a. A network of nerves originating from the spinal cord at the C5-T1 levels
b. After these nerves form a network with one another, five distinct nerves are formed:
i. Axillary
ii. Radial
iii. Musculocutaneous
iv. Ulnar
v. Median
3. Innervation of the lower extremities arises from the lumbar and lumbrosacral plexuses.
a. A network of nerves originating from L1-S4
b. Leads to the formation of multiple distinct nerves, including:
i. Sciatic nerve
ii. Femoral nerve
H. Musculoskeletal bloody supply
1. The upper extremity’s blood supply comes from the subclavian artery.
a. When the subclavian artery reaches the axilla, it is referred to as the axillary artery.
b. After supplying blood to the shoulder region, the artery leaves the axilla and becomes the brachial artery.
c. The brachial artery passes through the elbow, dividing into the radial artery and the ulnar artery.
d. The radial and ulnar arteries branch out into the hand, forming digital arteries in the fingers.
2. The lower extremity’s blood supply comes from the external iliac artery.
a. When the external iliac artery reaches the leg it becomes the femoral artery.
b. At the knee the femoral artery is referred to as the popliteal artery.
c. The popliteal artery divides into the anterior tibial artery and posterior tibial artery.
d. The anterior and posterior tibial arteries run along the surface of the ankle and eventually travel to the foot.
e. Within the foot, arteries give off branches that form the digital arteries of the toes.
III. Patterns and Mechanisms of Musculoskeletal Injury
A. A pathologic fracture is produced by a force that generally would not cause harm to a healthy bone.
B. Injury forces and motions
1. Direct force
a. Fractures occur when the force of an impact is too great to be absorbed by the soft tissue.
b. With high-velocity penetrating injuries, the speed of impact matters more than the size of the penetrating object.
c. Impalement injuries cause soft-tissue damage that is similar to a low-velocity injury.
i. If the object hits bone, a fracture may occur.
2. Indirect force
a. Indirect injuries occur when the force applied to one part of the body is transmitted to a structurally weaker area.
i. Force can be transmitted along the length of a bone or through several bones in a series, causing injury anywhere along the way.
b. Twisting injuries occur when an extremity twists around a planted foot or hand
i. Common in sports
ii. Causes tearing of tendons and ligaments
c. Fatigue (march) fractures are caused by repetitive stress.
i. Occur after prolonged walking
d. Pathologic fractures may occur in patients with diseases that weaken areas of bone.
e. Some injuries are commonly encountered together.
IV. Pathophysiology
A. Fracture: A break in the continuity of a bone
1. Occurs when the amount of force applied to a bone overcomes the strength of the bone
a. Strength is affected by:
i. Age
ii. Osteoporosis
iii. Nutritional status
iv. Diseases processes
2. Fracture classification
a. A fracture can be classified based on:
i. Direction of the fracture line through the bone
ii. Number of fractures on the bone
iii. Number of cortices (layers) involved
b. Fractures may be classified based on type of displacement
i. Angulation: Each end of the fracture is not aligned in a straight line; an angle has formed.
(a) May occur in frontal plane, sagittal plane, or both.
c. Fractures may be classified as open or closed.
i. Open (compound) fracture: Break in overlying skin allows the fracture to make contact with the outside world.
(a) High risk of infection and blood loss due to:
(1) More soft-tissue damage is involved.
(2) Less interstitial pressure causes larger hematoma.
ii. Closed fracture: Skin over the fracture remains intact.
d. Signs and symptoms of a fracture
i. Pain close to the fracture site
ii. Deformity
(a) Compare to extremity on the other side
iii. Shortening
(a) Occurs when the broken ends of a bone override each other
(b) Characteristic of femur fractures
iv. Swelling
v. Guarding/loss of use
vi. Tender to palpation
vii. Crepitus: Grating sound caused by bone ends touching
(a) Do not try to elicit this sign.
viii. Exposed bone ends
(a) Found in an open fracture
B. Ligament injuries and dislocations
1. Key factors in determining a joint’s range of motion (ROM):
a. Shapes of bones that form the joint
b. Tightness of the ligaments that hold the bones in place
2. Dislocation: Bone is totally displaced from the joint.
a. Occurs when a body part moves beyond its usual ROM and articular surfaces are no longer intact
b. Evaluation reveals:
i. Obvious and significant deformity
ii. Significant decrease in joint’s ROM
iii. Severe pain
c. Subluxation: Partial dislocation
d. Luxation: Complete dislocation
e. Diastasis: Ligaments that hold two bones in place are disrupted and the space between them increases.
f. Potential to cause neurovascular compromise distal to the site of injury
i. Assess the neurovascular status distal to the site of dislocation before and after splinting.
3. Sprains: Ligaments are stretched or torn.
a. Occur when a joint is twisted beyond its normal ROM, causing temporary subluxation
b. Commonly involves the ankle or the knee
c. Typical symptoms of sprains include:
i. Pain
ii. Swelling
iii. Discoloration over the injured joint
C. Muscle and tendon injuries
1. Muscle and tendon injuries include:
a. Strains
b. Achilles tendon rupture
c. Injuries related to inflammatory responses
i. Bursitis
ii. Tendinitis
2. Strain (pulled muscle): Injury to a muscle and/or tendon
a. Results from a violent muscle contraction or excessive stretching
b. There is usually no deformity.
c. Symptoms include:
i. Minor swelling
ii. Increased pain with movement
D. Injuries that may signify fractures
1. Amputation: Separation of a limb or other body part from the rest of the body
a. May be complete (full separation of the body part) or incomplete (leaving some tissue)
b. Hemorrhage can be severe and life threatening.
c. Fractures may be present.
2. Laceration: Smooth or jagged cut caused by a sharp object or a blunt force that tears tissue
a. The depth of the injury can vary.
b. Lacerations involving damaged arteries or veins result in severe bleeding.
c. Deep lacerations may cause nerve injury.
i. Evaluate distal PMS functions.
V. Patient Assessment
A. When assessing an injured patient, do not be distracted by visually impressive injuries!
1. Complete the primary assessment before focusing on the extremities.
2. Patients may be classified based on the presence or absence of associated injuries:
a. Life- or limb-threatening injury or condition
b. Life-threatening injuries and simple musculoskeletal trauma
c. Life- or limb-threatening musculoskeletal trauma and no other life-threatening injuries
d. Isolated, non-life- or non-limb-threatening injuries
B. Scene size-up
1. Focus on safety and standard precautions.
2. Consider the mechanism of injury (MOI).
a. Will spinal stabilization be needed?
b. Don appropriate PPE such as a mask, gown, or eye protection.
3. Request additional resources as needed.
C. Primary assessment
1. Focus on mental status, ABCs, and priority.
a. If there are no immediately life-threatening conditions, continue with history taking and a secondary assessment.
b. If there is a significant MOI, do a rapid exam at the scene and perform the full-body exam en route to the hospital.
c. Priorities of musculoskeletal injuries should include:
i. Identifying the injuries
ii. Preventing further harm or damage to the injured structures and surrounding tissues
iii. Supporting the injured area
iv. Administering pain medication if necessary.
2. Form a general impression.
a. Evaluate level of consciousness using the AVPU scale.
i. For conscious patients, assess mental status by asking questions about chief complaint.
ii. For less alert or unconscious patients, administer high-flow oxygen and expedite transport.
b. If there was significant trauma and multiple body systems are affected, the musculoskeletal injuries may be a lower priority.
i. Do not waste scene time on prolonged assessment or splinting.
ii. Use a long backboard as a “full-body” splint and complete additional assessment during transport.
3. Airway and breathing
a. Very little else matters if the patient’s airway and breathing are inadequate.
i. Injuries to the head or spine, intoxication, or other injuries may cause inadequate breathing.
b. Evaluate the chief complaint and MOI to help determine if the patient has an open airway.
c. If a spinal injury is suspected, prepare for stabilization.
4. Circulation
a. Determine whether the patient:
i. Has a pulse
ii. Has adequate perfusion
iii. Is bleeding
b. Hypoperfusion is a primary concern.
i. Treat the patient for shock immediately if the skin is pale, cool, or clammy and capillary refill time is slow.
(a) Maintain a normal body temperature.
(b) Stabilize musculoskeletal injuries in the extremities prior to moving.
ii. Assess for pulses proximal to the injury, and note any circulatory changes
c. Check for external bleeding from open fractures.
i. Bandages should be secure enough to control bleeding without restricting circulation.
ii. Swelling from fractures and internal injuries may cause bandages to become too tight.
iii. Apply a tourniquet if bleeding cannot be controlled.
5. Transport decision
a. Rapid transport should be provided for:
i. Patients with airway or breathing problems
ii. Patients with significant bleeding
iii. Patients with a significant MOI (even if condition appears stable)
b. For rapid transport, use a backboard as a splinting device for the whole body instead of taking the time to splint individual body parts.
i. Individual splints should be applied en route if the ABCs are stable.
c. Patients with simple MOIs may be stabilized on the scene prior to transport.
i. Handle fractures carefully to prevent sharp bone ends from breaking through the skin or damaging nerves and blood vessels.
D. History taking
1. Obtain the patient’s medical history using the standard SAMPLE format.
a. Identify any preexisting musculoskeletal disorders, and attempt to learn more about the injury.
2. Obtain information about the incident that caused the injury.
a. Talk to the patient or any witnesses to the incident, asking about:
i. Condition and position of the patient before incident
ii. Details of incident
iii. Position of patient after incident
b. Ask the patient for subjective description of the injury
i. How did this happen?
ii. Did you hear a pop?
iii. Do you have pain?
iv. What functional limitations do you now have?
E. Secondary assessment
1. Obtain a baseline set of vital signs.
2. Compare one side of the injured extremity with the other, noting discrepancy in:
a. Length
b. Positioning
c. Skin color
3. Perform an exam.
a. Note DCAP-BTLS:
i. Deformity
ii. Contusions
iii. Abrasions
iv. Penetrating injury
v. Burns
vi. Tenderness
vii. Lacerations
viii. Swelling
b. Cover the six “P”s of musculoskeletal assessment:
i. Pain
ii. Paralysis
iii. Paresthesias (numbness or tingling)
iv. Pulselessness
v. Pallor (pale or delayed capillary refill in children)
vi. Pressure
4. Pain
a. When a tissue is injured, chemical mediators facilitate the conduction of the painful stimulus to the brain.
b. Remember the OPQRST mnemonic when assessing pain:
i. Onset of pain
ii. Provoking or palliating factors
iii. Quality of the pain (sharp, pressure, crampy)
iv. Region of the pain (primary location and area where the pain radiates)
v. Severity of the pain
vi. Time (duration) of pain
c. Ask the patient to rate the pain on a scale of 1 to 10.
5. Inspection
a. Evaluate the joint above and below the site of injury.
b. Compare the injured side to the uninjured side.
c. Check for the following signs:
i. Deformity
(a) Asymmetry
(b) Angulation
(c) Shortening
(d) Rotation
ii. Skin changes
(a) Contusions
(b) Abrasions
(c) Avulsions
(d) Punctures
(e) Burns
(f) Lacerations
(g) Bone ends
iii. Swelling
iv. Muscle spasms
v. Abnormal limb positioning
vi. Increased or decreased ROM
vii. Color changes
(a) Pallor
(b) Cyanosis
viii. Bleeding
6. Palpation
a. Check for point tenderness (where the patient feels pain) at the site of injury and above and below.
i. Note that point tenderness will be absent in intoxicated patients and patients with spinal injury.
b. Attempt to identify instability, deformity, abnormal joint or bone continuity, and displaced bones.
c. Feel for crepitus at the site of fracture.
d. Palpate distal pulses, comparing strength at the site of an injured extremity to a normal one.
i. Signs of an arterial injury include:
(a) Pulsatile expanding hematoma
(b) Diminished distal pulses
(c) Palpable thrill (vibration) over injury site that correlates with heartbeat
(d) Difficult-to-control bleeding
ii. Palpate the pelvis.
(a) Apply pressure over the pubic symphysis.
(b) Press the iliac wings toward the midline and then posteriorly.
(c) Do not repeatedly examine if instability is found.
iii. Palpate upper and lower extremities
(a) Place your hand around an extremity and squeeze, repeating this every few centimeters.
(b) When evaluating upper extremities, check the shoulder and cervical spine.
(c) When evaluating the lower extremities, check the pelvis and hip.
7. Motor function and sensory exam
a. A motor function exam should be performed whenever a patient has an injury to an extremity.
i. First check that the patient does not have a life-threatening injury.
ii. Consider the preinjury level of function; deficits may be due to prior injuries or medical problems.
iii. Carry out each test with and without resistance and on both sides of the body so extremities can be compared.
b. A sensory exam should also be performed on all patients who have an injury to an extremity.
i. First check that the patient does not have a life-threatening injury.
ii. Identify preexisting conditions that cause changes in sensation, such as diabetes and nerve disorders.
iii. Ask the patient if he or she feels any abnormal sensations such as numbness or tingling.
iv. Lightly touch the injured extremity and the unaffected side simultaneously.
c. To properly perform a motor function and sensory exam, refer to Skill Drill 37-1.
F. Reassessment
1. The overall goal is to identify the type and extent of the injury and to provide treatment that maximizes the normal healing process.
a. Treatment begins in the field.
VI. Emergency Medical Care
A. General treatment of fractures
1. Control external bleeding.
2. Prevent infection in open fractures.
3. Manage internal bleeding (shock considerations).
4. Immobilize the limb.
B. General treatment of sprains
1. Immobilize.
2. Chill.
3. Elevate.
4. Splint with an elastic bandage.
5. Reduce weight bearing.
6. Manage pain.
C. Volume deficit due to musculoskeletal injuries
1. Fractures can lead to significant blood loss when blood vessels are damaged.
a. Prevent hypotension and an unstable condition by:
i. Applying direct pressure
ii. Splinting
iii. Administering IV fluids
D. Pain control
1. Orthopaedic injuries are extremely painful.
a. Assess the patient’s pain level.
i. Use this baseline measure to assess the effectiveness of treatments as they are administered.
b. First try simple measures to control pain.
i. Splinting
ii. Resting and elevating
iii. Applying heat or ice
c. If simple measures fail, administer an analgesic or antispasmodic agent.
i. These agents should be reserved for patients in hemodynamically stable condition who have an isolated injury.
ii. Obtain vital signs before and after administering medication.
iii. Reassess pain level after administering medication.
iv. Administering pain medication before splinting may allow the extremity to be stabilized more effectively.
E. Cold and heat application
1. During the first 48 hours after an injury, cold packs can be used to reduce pain and swelling.
a. Causes vasoconstriction of the blood vessels
b. Decreases the release of inflammatory mediators
2. Heat therapy should be avoided in the first 48 to 72 hours following an injury as it may increase pain and swelling.
a. After the acute phase on an injury, heat packs can be useful in:
i. Increasing blood flow
ii. Decreasing stiffness
F. Splinting
1. Intended to provide support and prevent motion of broken bone ends
a. Decreases pain
b. Reduces risk of further damage to muscles, nerves, blood vessels, and skin
c. Controls bleeding by allowing clots to form
2. To stabilize multiple fractures when the patient’s condition is critical, use a long backboard and straps.
a. Protects against a spinal injury
b. Reduces movement of injured extremities by securing them to the board
c. Saves time at the scene
3. Principles of splinting
a. Make sure the injured area can be seen before splinting.
b. Assess and record distal PMS functions (before and after).
c. Cover all wounds with a dry, sterile dressing before applying the splint.
i. Brush away any obvious debris surrounding an open fracture.
ii. Do not probe open wounds or attempt to push the bone back under the skin.
d. Do not move the patient before splinting unless conditions are hazardous.
e. For fractures, immobilize the bone ends and the two adjacent joints.
f. For dislocations, splint along the entire length of bone above and below the joint.
g. Pad the splint well.
h. Support the injury, and minimize movement while applying the splint.
i. If a long bone fracture is severely angulated, use longitudinal traction to realign the bone and improve circulation.
i. Avoid straightening or manipulating joints unless there is no distal pulse.
j. Splint knees straight (unless angulated) and elbows at a right angle.
k. Discontinue traction if the patient reports severe pain.
l. Splint firmly.
m. Avoid covering fingers and toes to allow for monitoring of skin.
n. Apply cold packs and elevate the limb.
o. In the case of life-threatening injuries, splinting should not delay transport.
4. Types of splints
a. Rigid splint
i. Inflexible device that can be attached to a limb for stability
ii. Examples include:
(a) Padded board
(b) Piece of heavy cardboard
(c) Aluminum “ladder” or SAM splint molded to fit an extremity
iii. Must be generously padded to ensure even pressure along extremity
iv. Must be long enough to be secured above and below the fracture site
v. Use two providers to apply a rigid splint: one maintains traction while the other wraps the limb.
b. Sling and swathe
i. Slings are useful in stabilizing shoulder or other upper extremity injuries.
ii. To apply a sling:
(a) Place the splinted extremity in a comfortable position across the chest.
(b) Lay the long edge of a triangular bandage along the patient’s side opposite the injury.
(c) Bring the bottom of the bandage up and over the forearm, tying it at the neck and elbow to form a cradle.
(d) Secure so the hand is higher than the elbow.
(e) Cushion with gauze pads to increase patient comfort.
iii. A swathe can add further stabilization for injuries to the clavicle or anterior dislocations of the shoulder.
iv. Do not use a sling if the patient has a neck injury.
c. Pneumatic splints (air or inflatable splints)
i. Stabilize fractures to the lower leg or forearm.
ii. Should not be used for angulated fractures, fractures that involve a joint, or open fractures
iii. Two distinct advantages:
(a) Slow bleeding
(b) Minimize swelling
iv. To apply an air splint without a zipper:
(a) Grasp the patient’s hand or foot and slide the splint over your hand and onto the extremity.
(b) Instruct your assistant to inflate the splint.
v. To apply an air splint with a zipper:
(a) Apply it to the injured area while an assistant maintains traction.
(b) Zip it up and inflate.
vi. Ensure that the splint does not lose pressure or become overinflated.
vii. If a patient has injuries to the lower extremities or pelvis, you may be able to use a pneumatic antishock garment (PASG).
(a) Be sure to check with medical control.
(b) Do not use if any of the following exist:
(1) Pregnancy
(2) Pulmonary edema
(3) Acute heart failure
(4) Penetrating chest injuries
(5) Groin injuries
(6) Major head injuries
(7) Transport time of less than 30 minutes
(c) Carefully inflate the device in increments, with the legs before the abdominal portion.
(d) Document injuries and deformities before applying
(e) Do not remove in the field.
d. Vacuum splints
i. Sealed mattresses filled with air and plastic beads that can be placed on a stretcher to make the patient more comfortable
(a) Air is suctioned out, compressing the beads so the splint becomes rigid like a plaster cast
ii. Disadvantages:
(a) Bulky
(b) Requires mechanical suction pump
iii. Smaller versions are available for stabilizing individual limbs
e. Pillow splints
i. Used to stabilize an injured foot or ankle.
ii. Mold the pillow around the injury, and secure in place with cravats.
f. Traction splints
i. Used to stabilize femur fractures
ii. The splint pulls on the femur.
(a) Prevents broken bone ends from overriding as a result of unopposed muscle contraction
(b) Maintain alignment of the fracture pieces.
(c) Provide effective stabilization of the fracture site.
(d) Reduce blood loss.
iii. Do not use when there is an:
(a) Additional fracture below the knee on the same extremity
(b) Open femur fractures
iv. To apply:
(a) Assess the extremity for distal PMS functions.
(b) Place the splint next to the leg to determine the proper length.
(c) Stabilize the leg while your partner applies the splint.
v. Reassess PMS functions after applying.
g. Buddy splinting
i. Used for injuries to the fingers and toes
ii. An adjacent finger or toe acts as a splint to the injured one
iii. Tape the injured digit to the uninjured one, placing gauze between.
iv. Avoid taping over joints.
v. Make sure the tape doesn’t cut off circulation.
VII. Pathophysiology, Assessment, and Management of Pediatric Fractures
A. The relative weakness of growth plates (ossification centers) makes children’s bones vulnerable to fracture.
1. Growth plates may fracture even with a low-energy MOI.
2. Tenderness, swelling, and bruising tend to be at a lower level than what is usually associated with fractures.
3. Pelvic fractures are unusual in children.
a. Risk increases in adolescence, as the skeleton comes to resemble that of an adult.
B. Assessment and management
1. When assessing pediatric patients, look for signs of abuse.
a. Observe the child’s relationship with the parent(s).
2. Adjust your approach as needed for children of different ages.
3. Stabilize all sprains and suspected fractures, immobilizing injuries as you would for an adult.
4. Transport child with a family member.
a. If a family member is not there, remember the rules of consent and inform the child’s caregiver of the transport location.
VIII. Pathophysiology, Assessment, and Management of Complications of Musculoskeletal Injuries
A. Musculoskeletal injuries can lead to numerous complications.
1. The likelihood of complication is related to:
a. The strength of the force that caused the injury
b. The location of the injury
c. The patient’s overall health
2. Following a fracture, the sharp ends of the bone may:
a. Damage muscles, blood vessels, arteries, and nerves.
b. Penetrate the skin and produce an open fracture.
3. Long-term disability is one of the most difficult consequences of musculoskeletal injuries.
a. Patients may need to undergo rehabilitation before returning to work.
b. Paramedics can reduce the probability of long-term disability by:
i. Preventing further injury
ii. Reducing the risk of wound infection
iii. Minimizing pain
iv. Transporting patients to the appropriate facility
B. Vascular and neurovascular injuries
1. Devascularization: Loss of blood flow to a body part, occurring when blood vessels are damaged following a musculoskeletal injury
2. Neurovascular injuries occur when the skeletal system is compromised.
a. When the shoulder girdle or proximal humerus is fractured, displaced fragments may impale the nerves of the plexus.
b. When joints are dislocated, nerves and vessels in the joint region become vulnerable.
3. Assessment and management
a. Vascular injuries can include:
i. Contusion of the vessel wall
ii. Laceration
iii. Kinking or bending
iv. Formation of pseudoaneurysms
v. Thrombosis
b. Take the same steps with all vascular injuries.
i. Assess and reassess pulses.
ii. Control bleeding.
iii. Maintain adequate intravascular volume with IV fluid.
C. Compartment syndrome
1. Fascia: Inelastic membrane that surrounds groups of muscles within a limb
a. Muscles are confined to the enclosed space.
b. When bleeding or swelling occur in a muscle compartment, pressure rises.
c. Compartment syndrome: Condition that occurs when pressure is too high, leading to impaired circulation, pain, sensory changes, and progressive muscle death
2. Causes of compartment syndrome include:
a. Overly tight application of bandages, splints, casts, or a PASG
b. Fracture, dislocation, crush injury, vascular injury, soft-tissue injury, bleeding disorder, or snake bite
c. Fluid leakage or edema occurring secondary to ischemia, excessive exercise, trauma, or burns
3. Assessment
a. The first sign is complaint of searing or burning pain localized to the involved compartment.
i. Pain will be out of proportion to the injury and may not respond to medication.
b. The affected area may feel firm, and there may be skin pallor.
c. Neurologic symptoms include:
i. Paresthesias (burning sensation, numbness, or tingling)
ii. Paralysis of involved muscles
d. Pulselessness is a late sign.
i. Significant muscle necrosis has probably occurred at this point.
4. Management
a. The goal is to get the patient to an emergency facility before pulselessness occurs.
b. Care includes:
i. Elevating the extremity to heart level
ii. Applying cold packs
iii. Opening or loosening constrictive clothing or splinting material
iv. Administering high-flow oxygen and a bolus of isotonic crystalloid solution
D. Crush syndrome
1. Occurs as a result of prolonged compressive force that impairs muscle metabolism and circulation
a. After 4 to 6 hours, compressed muscles begin to die and release their contents into the localized vasculature (rhabdomyolysis).
i. When the force compressing the region is released, the material that was released quickly returns to the systemic vasculature.
ii. The release of lactic acid, potassium, and myoglobin can result in:
(a) Decreased blood pH (academia)
(b) Hyperkalemia
(c) Renal dysfunction
2. Assessment and management
a. Treatment should always be performed with medical direction.
b. Before releasing the compressing force, take these steps:
i. Assess the ABCs.
ii. Administer high-flow supplemental oxygen and a bolus of isotonic crystalloid solution.
iii. Establish cardiac monitoring to evaluate electrocardiographic (ECG) changes related to hyperkalemia.
c. During extrication, a nebulizer treatment with albuterol may be given to protect against surge of potassium.
d. If the ECG shows signs of hyperkalemia after the patient is freed:
i. Administer calcium to stabilize the myocardium.
ii. Administer sodium bicarbonate (or insulin with dextrose in the hospital) to promote the intracellular shift of potassium.
E. Thromboembolic disease
1. Thromboembolic disease is a significant cause of death following musculoskeletal injuries.
a. Includes:
i. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
ii. Pulmonary embolism
b. Occurs more frequently with injuries that cause prolonged immobilization
2. Assessment and management
a. Signs and symptoms of DVT include:
i. Disproportionate swelling of an extremity
ii. Discomfort in the extremity that worsens with use
iii. Warmth and erythema of the extremity
b. Pulmonary embolism: A blood clot that occludes a portion or all of the pulmonary arteries
i. Signs and symptoms of pulmonary embolism include:
(a) Sudden onset of dyspnea
(b) Pleuritic chest pain (either side)
(c) Dyspnea
(d) Tachypnea
(e) Tachycardia
(f) Low-grade fever
(g) Right-side heart failure
(h) Shock
(i) Cardiac arrest
c. Fat embolism: Fat droplets become lodged in the vasculature of the lungs
i. Signs and symptoms of fat embolism begin within 12 to 72 hours of injury and include:
(a) Tachycardia
(b) Dyspnea
(c) Tachypnea
(d) Pulmonary congestion
(e) Fever
(f) Petechiae
(g) Change in mental status
(h) Organ dysfunction
d. Treatment for thromboembolic disease in the field is limited, but it includes:
i. Maintaining an airway
ii. Supplying adequate oxygen
iii. Maintaining intravascular volume
iv. Providing rapid transport to the emergency department
IX. Pathophysiology, Assessment, and Management of Specific Fractures
A. Shoulder girdle
1. The shoulder girdle consists of:
a. Clavicle
i. Clavicle fractures are very common and occur often in children.
ii. Typically occurs as a result of a fall onto an outstretched hand or direct lateral trauma
b. Shoulder
i. Shoulder fractures include those involving:
(a) Glenoid fossa of the scapula
(b) Humeral head
(c) Humeral neck
ii. Typically occurs as a result of a fall onto an outstretched hand
iii. Usually occur in elderly patients
c. Scapula
i. Scapula injuries usually result from violent, direct trauma.
ii. Check for associated intrathoracic injuries, including:
(a) Pneumothorax
(b) Hemothorax
(c) Fractured ribs
2. Assessment
a. Signs and symptoms of clavicle fractures include:
i. Pain in the shoulder region
ii. Swelling
iii. Unwillingness to raise the arm
iv. Tilting of the head toward the fracture site
b. Signs and symptoms of a shoulder injury include:
i. Swelling (but no obvious deformity)
ii. Ecchymosis
iii. Pain with movement of the arm
c. Signs and symptoms of a scapular fracture include:
i. Pain that increases with arm abduction
ii. Swelling
iii. Potential complications, including:
(a) Axillary artery or nerve injury
(b) Brachial plexus injury
(c) Pulmonary contusion
(d) Clavicle fractures
3. Management
a. Shoulder fractures can be treated with a sling or swathe.
b. Suspected scapula fractures should be treated with full spinal stabilization.
B. Midshaft humerus fractures
1. Usually occur in younger patients secondary to high-energy injuries
a. Substantial deformity is typical.
2. Assessment
a. Signs and symptoms of humerus fractures include:
i. Significant swelling
ii. Ecchymosis
iii. Gross instability of the region
iv. Crepitus
v. Damage to the upper arm nerves and blood vessels (with severe force)
(a) Damage to the radial nerve is a special concern.
(1) Indicated by wrist drop
3. Management
a. Longitudinal traction can be applied to correct angulated fractures.
i. Halt efforts if the patient’s pain is severe or his or her neurovascular status worsens.
b. Once the extremity is back in place, apply a rigid splint and a sling.
c. Use cold packs to reduce pain and swelling.
C. Elbow
1. Distal humerus
a. Supracondylar fractures typically occur as a result of falling onto an outstretched hand with the elbow in extension.
b. The distal fragment of the humerus is pushed posteriorly, and the humerus shaft is pulled anteriorly, compressing the brachial artery and the radial and median nerves.
c. When the brachial artery is compromised, compartment syndrome may occur, putting the patient at risk for Volkmann ischemic contracture.
i. Condition in which muscles of the forearm degenerate from prolonged ischemia
ii. The patient could lose use of the hand.
2. Proximal radius and ulna
a. Radial head fractures occur as a result of falling onto an outstretched hand or from a direct blow.
b. There is a risk of injury to the nerves and blood vessels near the fracture site.
3. Assessment and management
a. Signs and symptoms of a distal humerus fracture include:
i. Pain in the area of the elbow
ii. Significant swelling
iii. Ecchymosis
b. Signs and symptoms of a radial head fracture include:
i. Significant pain associated with supination or pronation
ii. Ecchymosis
4. Treatment of injuries is the same regardless of the region of the elbow.
a. Repeatedly assess for compartment syndrome.
i. Use cold packs only if there is no evidence of compartment syndrome.
b. Conduct a neurovascular exam before splinting.
i. Splinting can occur if a patient has a distal pulse.
ii. If there is no distal pulse, consult with the appropriate medical facility.
c. Transport the patient gently.
D. Forearm
1. Forearm fractures may involve the radius, the ulna, or both.
a. Typically occur as a result of a direct blow (nightstick fracture) or falling onto an outstretched hand (Colles fracture)
b. Occur most commonly in elderly patients with osteoporosis
2. Assessment and management
a. Signs and symptoms of a Colles fracture include:
i. A dorsally angulated deformity of the distal forearm (“silver fork deformity”)
ii. Pain
iii. Swelling
b. Treatment of forearm fractures includes:
i. Splinting to stabilize the entire forearm, and in cases of more proximal fractures, the elbow
ii. Application of cold packs to reduce pain and swelling
iii. Frequent neurovascular exams to check for compartment syndrome and acute carpal tunnel syndrome
E. Wrist and head
1. Scaphoid
a. Located just distal to the radius
b. Injuries occur as a result of falling onto an outstretched hand.
c. Avascular necrosis is a major concern because of limited bloody supply.
2. Boxer’s fracture
a. Fracture of the neck of the fifth metacarpal (small finger)
b. Occurs after punching a hard object, such as a door or wall
3. Metacarpal shaft
a. Fractures may result from a crush injury or direct trauma.
4. Mallet finger (baseball fracture)
a. Occurs when a finger is jammed into an object, resulting in an avulsion fracture of the extensor tendon
5. Assessment
a. Signs and symptoms of a scaphoid fracture include:
i. Pain
ii. Tenderness in the anatomic snuffbox (located at the base of the thumb between the two visible tendons on the radial aspect of the wrist)
b. Signs and symptoms of a boxer’s fracture include:
i. Pain over the ulnar aspect of the hand
ii. Noticeable swelling
c. Signs and symptoms of metacarpal fractures include:
i. Abnormal rotation or alignment of the fingers
ii. Swelling of the palm
iii. Pain
iv. Tenderness
d. Signs and symptoms of mallet finger include:
i. Inability to extend the distal phalanx of the finger; flexed position is maintained.
6. Management
a. Splint the injured hand (use a foam-padded flexible aluminum splint for injured fingers).
i. Secure the injured extremity to an armboard or other rigid splint.
ii. Elevate the extremity to prevent swelling.
iii. Apply bulky dressings in the case of penetrating injuries.
F. Pelvis
1. Pelvic injuries are uncommon, but they are responsible for a significant number of deaths in blunt trauma patients.
a. The risk of death ranges from 8% to 50%.
i. The mortality rate for open fractures is higher (25% to 50%).
ii. Death results from hemorrhaging caused by damage to the arteries and veins.
b. Disruptions of the pelvic ring occur secondary to high-energy trauma.
i. May also result from crush injuries and falls from a significant height
ii. Suspect multisystem trauma if patient has a pelvic injury.
c. Structures within the pelvis at risk for injury when it is fractured include:
i. Bladder
ii Urethra
iii. Rectum
iv. Vagina
v. Sacral nerve plexus
d. Blood vessels most prone to damage are the veins within the pelvis.
e. The nerves at greatest risk of injury are:
i. Those in the lumbar and sacral regions
ii. Sciatic nerves
iii. Femoral nerves
2. Lateral compression pelvic ring disruptions
a. Result from side body impact
b. The side of the pelvis that sustains impact internally rotates around the sacrum and the actual volume of the pelvis decreases.
c. There is a lower risk of hemorrhage due to the decreased volume.
3. Anterior-posterior compression pelvic ring disruptions
a. Occur following a head-on collision (usually involving a motor vehicle or motorcycle) or a fall
b. The pelvis is compressed in the anterior-posterior direction.
i. The pubic symphysis and posterior supporting ligaments tear apart.
ii. The pelvis spreads open like a book (sometimes called an open-book fracture).
c. The risk of hemorrhage is high due to increased volume of the pelvis.
4. Vertical shear
a. Occurs when a major force is applied to the pelvis from above or below (as in a fall from significant height)
b. Force is transmitted from the legs to the pelvis, resulting in complete displacement of one or both sides of the pelvis toward the head.
i. There is disruption of the bony or ligamentous structures, involving:
(a) Fracture of the rami or disruption of the pubic symphysis
(b) Fracture of the ilium or sacrum or disruption of the sacroiliac joint
c. Results in increased pelvic volume
5. Straddle fracture
a. Occurs after a fall when a person lands in the region of the perineum and sustains bilateral fractures of the inferior and superior rami
b. This injury does not interfere with weight bearing.
c. Carries a risk of complications, particularly those of the lower genitourinary system
6. Open pelvic fractures
a. Injury to the major vascular structures can cause life-threatening hemorrhage.
i. Pelvic region
ii. Vagina
iii. Rectum
b. Uncommon
c. May result from penetrating or blunt trauma
d. Causes massive hemorrhage and has a mortality rate of 25% to 50%
7. Assessment
a. Signs and symptoms of a stable injury include:
i. Pain in the pelvis
ii. Difficulty bearing weight
b. Signs and symptoms of more profound injury include:
i. Shock
ii. Gross pelvic instability
iii. Diffuse pelvic and lower abdominal pain
iv. Possible bruising or lacerations in the perineum, scrotum, groin, suprapubic region, and flank
v. Possible hematuria (blood in the urine) or blood coming from the meatus of the penis, vagina, or rectum
c. Signs and symptoms of a vertical shear include:
i. Significant shortening of the limb on the affected side
ii. Possible massive hemorrhaging into the pelvis
d. Signs and symptoms of an open fracture include:
i. Blood (even small amounts are significant) in the vaginal or rectal regions
e. Evaluation and treatment is the same across all types of pelvic fracture.
i. Assess mental status and ABCs, taking spinal precautions.
ii. Assess the pelvis for bleeding, lacerations, bruising, and instability.
(a) To assess for instability, apply pressure over the iliac wings.
(b) Once instability is identified, the pelvis should not be reassessed to avoid increased bleeding.
iii. A search for entry and exit wounds for penetrating injuries can be helpful but should not delay transport.
8. Management
a. Treatment should include:
i. Monitoring of the ABCs
ii. Spinal stabilization
iii. IV access with large-bore catheters
b. The goal of management is to:
i. Reduce bleeding
ii. Decrease instability
(a) May include application of a pelvic binder or tying a sheet around the pelvis
c. Follow specific steps to apply a pelvic binder:
i. Log roll the patient on a backboard to get the binder into position.
ii. Make sure the binder is over the trochanters and below the ribs and tops of the iliac wings.
iii. Connect the two sides of the binder together.
iv. Apply gentle but firm pressure from either side of the pelvis to decrease pelvic volume.
v. Perform definitive tightening of the binder.
vi. Check that the patient can breathe easily.
d. Provide rapid transport to the emergency department.
i. PASG may be used during transport, but this method is controversial.
G. Hip
1. A hip fracture involves a fracture of the femoral head, femoral neck, intertrochanteric region, or proximal femoral shaft.
a. Fractures of the femoral head are usually associated with a hip dislocation and are not very common.
b. Femoral neck and intertrochanteric fractures are a result of falls and are common in older patients with osteoporosis.
i. In younger patients this injury would occur as a result of a high-energy mechanism.
c. Proximal femoral shaft injuries result from a high-energy mechanism and can occur in patients of any age.
2. Assessment
a. Signs and symptoms of a hip fracture may include:
i. Pain in the affected hip, especially with movement
ii. Inability to bear weight
iii. Reports of snapping sounds or feelings
iv. With displaced fractures, an externally rotated and shortened leg
v. Tenderness to palpation
vi. Swelling
vii. Deformity
viii. Ecchymosis
3. Management
a. Treatment depends on the MOI
i. Older patients who have sustained a low-energy injury do not require traction splints.
(a) Support the injured extremity in the position it is found with pillows and blankets.
ii. For younger patients with high-energy injuries treatment includes:
(a) Complete immobilization
(b) Establishing of vascular access
(c) Monitoring for shock
(d) Transport to a trauma center
(e) Possible use of a PASG (controversial)
b. Definitive treatment almost always requires surgery.
H. Femoral shaft
1. Femoral shaft fractures occur following high-energy impacts.
a. Other injuries may be present.
2. Assessment and management
a. Signs and symptoms of femoral shaft fractures may include:
i. Severe pain
ii. Angulation
iii. Limb shortening
iv. Open fracture
v. Thigh edema
vi. Bruising
vii. Crepitus
viii. Muscle spasm
ix. Blood loss
x. Neurovascular damage
xi. Fat emboli
b. Treatment includes:
i. Monitoring for shock
ii. Full spinal immobilization
iii. Establishing vascular access
iv. Use of a traction splint or PASG
v. Administration of pain medication
I. Knee
1. Knee fractures may involve the distal femur, proximal tibia, or patella.
a. Result from direct blows, an axial load of the leg, or contractions of the quadriceps
2. Assessment and management
a. Signs and symptoms of knee fracture include:
i. Significant pain, especially with movement and weight bearing
ii. Decreased ROM
iii. Ecchymosis
iv. Swelling
v. Deformity in the case of displaced fractures
b. Management depends on the position of the leg and the status of distal pulses.
i. If there is a good distal pulse, splint the extremity in the position it is found.
ii. If there is no pulse, seek medical consultation.
c. Elevate the leg to heart level.
d. Apply cold packs.
e. Perform frequent neurovascular checks.
J. Tibia and fibula
1. Fractures of the tibia or fibula may result from direct trauma to the lower leg or application of rotational or compressive forces.
2. Assessment and management
a. Signs and symptoms of tibia or fibula fracture may include:
i. Significant deformity
ii. Soft-tissue injury
b. Complications may include:
i. Compartment syndrome
ii. Neurovascular injury
iii. Infection
iv. Poor healing
v. Chronic pain
c. Treatment of tibia or fibula fractures includes:
i. Application of a rigid splint
ii. Administration of pain medication as needed
iii. In the case of angulation, attempts to align the leg
iv. Elevating the extremity to heart level
v. Applying cold packs
K. Ankle
1. Ankle fractures usually result from sudden, forceful movements of the foot.
a. Less often an axial load is transmitted through the foot, causing the talus to impact the distal tibia and leading to a fracture.
2. Assessment and management
a. Signs and symptoms of an ankle fracture include:
i. Pain
ii. Deformity
iii. Swelling
iv. Damage to nerve and blood vessels
v. Compartment syndrome
vi. Chronic pain and arthritis
b. Treatment for an ankle fracture includes:
i. Stabilization using commercial or pillow splint, keeping toes exposed
ii. Elevating the extremity to heart level
iii. Applying cold packs
c. If associated with a pulseless foot, medical direction may recommend reduction.
i. Relax the calf muscles by flexing the leg at the knee.
ii. Grasp the heel and the foot just proximal to the toes and apply traction.
iii. Rotate the foot back into its normal position without forcing it.
iv. Reassess the distal neurovascular status, and splint the extremity.
(a) If the fracture or dislocation cannot be reduced, notify medical control and expedite transportation.
L. Calcaneus
1. Calcaneus fractures can occur when a patient jumps from a height and lands on the feet or when a powerful force is applied directly to the heel.
2. Assessment and management
a. Signs and symptoms of calcaneus may include:
i. Foot pain
ii. Swelling
iii. Ecchymosis
b. Should alert provider to the possibility of other injuries
c. Treatment includes:
i. Splinting the injured extremity with a pillow
ii. Application of ice packs
iii. Spinal stabilization
X. Pathophysiology, Assessment, and Management of Ligament Injuries and Dislocations
A. Shoulder girdle injuries and dislocations
1. Acromioclavicular (AC) joint separation
a. Usually results from a direct blow to the superior aspect of the shoulder
2. Posterior sternoclavicular joint dislocation
a. Usually results from a direct blow to the clavicle
i. Can also result from application of strong pressure to the posterior shoulder
ii. The injury is easily identified due to swelling and pain at the sternoclavicular joint.
iii. Damage to underlying tissues presents a danger.
3. Shoulder dislocation
a. Usually results from a fall onto an outstretched arm that is abducted and externally rotated
4. Assessment
a. Signs and symptoms of AC joint separation include:
i. Pain
ii. Tenderness
iii. Possible protrusion of the distal clavicle
(a) Symptoms of a posterior dislocation of the clavicle that suggest an underlying injury require rapid transport to a trauma center.
(1) Dyspnea
(2) Pain on swallowing
(3) Choking sensation
(4) Loss of pulses
(5) Sensory deficit in the upper extremity on the same side
b. Signs and symptoms of shoulder dislocation include:
i. Severe pain, especially with movement
ii. Decreased ROM at the shoulder
iii. Possible bulge at the acromion on the anterior surface
iv. Palpable humeral head
v. Painful muscle spasms
c. Posterior shoulder dislocations present with similar pain and decreased ROM, but the arm is maintained in internal rotation and adduction.
d. Patients with shoulder dislocations are at risk for similar future injuries.
5. Management
a. Treat AC joint separation with a sling and swathe.
b. Treat posterior sternoclavicular dislocations by positioning the patient supine with the arm on the affected side abducted.
i. Place a rolled towel under the shoulder blade to alleviate pressure.
c. Treat dislocated shoulders by splinting the extremity in the position it was found.
i. Use of pain medication and antispasmodics may be indicated.
d. Perform neurovascular assessments frequently.
B. Elbow dislocation
1. Elbow dislocations have a high risk of neurovascular injury.
a. Majority are posterior injuries resulting from a fall onto an outstretched hand or from hyperextension of the elbow joint.
b. Nursemaid’s elbow: Subluxation of the radial head
i. Commonly occurs in children younger than 6 years
ii. Caused by a sudden pull on the child’s arm
2. Assessment and management
a. Signs and symptoms of elbow dislocation include:
i. Pain
ii. Swelling
iii. Ecchymosis
iv. Possible palpable deformity
v. Locking or resistance to movement of the joint
b. Complications of elbow dislocation include:
i. Associated fracture in the region of the joint
ii. Brachial artery injury
iii. Median nerve injury
iv. Ulnar nerve injury
c. Signs and symptoms of radial head subluxation include:
i. Injured arm held in flexion
ii. Refusal to move hand or elbow on the injured side
iii. Mild swelling
d. Treat dislocations and subluxations with a splint.
i. A sling and swatch can provide additional stability.
C. Wrist and hand dislocation
1. Wrist dislocations occur when the wrist is hyperextended beyond normal ROM.
2. Assessment and management
a. Signs and symptoms of a wrist or hand dislocation include:
i. Pain
ii. Swelling
iii. Deformity
b. Treatment for fractures, dislocations, sprains, and strains of the wrist or hand are essentially the same.
i. Use a padded board or pillow splint with a sling and swathe.
ii. Apply cold packs.
iii. Elevate the injured extremity.
iv. Administer pain medication as needed.
D. Finger dislocation
1. Finger dislocations are caused by a sudden jamming force or extension of the fingers beyond normal ROM.
2. Assessment and management
a. Signs and symptoms of finger dislocation include:
i. Pain
ii. Deformity
iii. Possible compromise of the neurovascular structure, leading to paresthesias
b. Treat by splinting the entire hand in the position of function.
i. Use soft dressings as needed for support.
c. Do not attempt to relocate the injured finger unless directed to do so by medical control.
d. To reduce a dislocated digit:
i. If the digit is dislocated to the dorsal side, extend it.
ii. If the digit is dislocated to the volar side, flex it.
iii. Following reduction, reassess neurovascular status and immobilize the digit.
E. Hip dislocation
1. The majority of hip dislocations occur due to deceleration injures, in which a flexed knee strikes an immobile object with extreme force.
a. 90% of these injuries involve posterior dislocation.
i. The affected side is in flexion, adduction, and internal rotation and is shorter.
ii. Major complications include:
(a) Sciatic nerve injury
(b) Avascular necrosis
(c) Associated fractures of the acetabulum
b. Injuries involving anterior dislocation usually follow a forceful spreading injury that occurs while the hip is flexed.
i. The affected side is in flexion, abducted, and externally rotated.
ii. Major complications include:
(a) Injury to the femoral artery or nerve
(b) Avascular necrosis of the hip
2. Assessment and management
a. Conduct a full-body exam.
b. Splint the injured extremity in the position it was found using blankets and pillows.
c. Perform frequent neurovascular checks.
d. Patients require sedation and muscle relaxants at the hospital.
F. Knee dislocation
1. Knee injuries occur as a result of high-energy trauma or secondary to powerful twisting forces.
a. In most cases the knee will spontaneously replace itself, and there will be no evidence of injury.
b. Anterior dislocations result from extreme hyperextension of the knee and are most common.
i. Anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments may be damaged.
ii. Risk of injury to the popliteal artery
c. Posterior dislocations result from a direct blow to the knee, shifting the tibia posteriorly.
i. Anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments may be damaged.
ii. Risk of injury to the popliteal artery
d. Medial dislocations result from a direct blow to the lateral part of the leg and are less common.
i. Medial collateral and cruciate ligaments may be damaged.
ii. There is less risk of injuring the popliteal artery
2. Assessment and management
a. Signs and symptoms of knee dislocation include:
i. Pain
ii. A report that the knee “gave out”
iii. Significant deformity (if the knee did not replace itself)
iv. Decreased ROM (if the knee did not replace itself)
b. Complications of knee dislocation include:
i. Limb-threatening popliteal artery disruption
ii. Injuries to the popliteal, peroneal, and tibial nerves
iii. Joint instability
c. Assessment depends on distal neurovascular function.
i. If a pulse if palpable, splint the knee in the position it was found.
ii. If there is no palpable pulse, reduce the knee prior to splinting.
(a) Apply longitudinal traction to the tibia in the direction of the foot.
(b) A second provider should apply pressure to the distal femur and proximal tibia.
(c) If the knee is dislocated anteriorly, apply pressure to the femur in the anterior direction and to the tibia in the opposite direction.
(d) If knee is dislocated posteriorly, apply pressure in the opposite manner.
(e) Check neurovascular status, and splint the leg securely.
(f) If the attempt fails, splint the knee in the position in which it is found and undertake rapid transport.
G. Tendon lacerations, transections, and ruptures
1. Knee injury
a. A twisted knee may result in laceration, transection, or rupture of the anterior or posterior cruciate ligaments, or the lateral or medial collateral ligaments.
b. Compression injury may result from a straight blow to the knee.
c. The knee may be hyperextended or experience tension injury when the foot is fixed while the body pulls in another direction.
2. Shoulder injury
a. Sternoclavicular sprain results from a direct blow or twisting of a posteriorly extended arm.
b. Rotator cuff injury results from a violent pull on the arm, abnormal rotation, or a fall onto an outstretched arm.
i. Often associated with chronic degenerative changes on the undersurface of the acromion
3. Assessment and management
a. Signs and symptoms of these injuries include:
i. Muscle weakness
ii. Pain
iii. Edema
iv. Loss of ROM
b. Treat as joint injuries and splint in place.
i. Compare the injured limb with the opposite limb.
ii. Determine the extremity’s ROM.
iii. Apply cold packs.
iv. Elevate the extremity.
v. Assess PMS function distal to the injury site.
vi. Provide psychological support, adjusting your approach for pediatric patients.
H. Achilles tendon rupture
1. Usually injured in start-and-stop sports such as basketball or football
a. The injury is more common in athletes over 30 years of age.
2. Assessment and management
a. Signs and symptoms of Achilles tendon rupture include:
i. Pain from the heel to the calf
ii. Inability for plantar flexion of the foot
iii. Possible deformity
b. Perform the Thompson test to identify Achilles tendon injuries.
i. Have the patient assume a prone position and squeeze the injured leg’s calf muscles.
(a) If there is no foot movement, the tendon is likely torn.
c. Management of Achilles tendon ruptures includes:
i. ICES
ii. Pain control
d. Treatment usually requires surgery or multiple casts.
XI. Pathophysiology, Assessment, and Management of Nontraumatic Musculoskeletal Disorders
A. Patients with nontraumatic musculoskeletal disorders usually do not have an acute life-threatening condition, but there are neurovascular concerns.
1. These disorders can be complex, with multiple concerns:
a. Rheumatology
b. Neurology
c. Oncology
d. Hematology
e. Infectious diseases
2. Patients with these disorders are typically already under a physician’s care.
B. Bony abnormalities
1. Osteomyelitis: Bacterial infection of the bone that can be caused by systemic or local infections
a. May develop in patients with weakened immune systems, such as:
i. Diabetics
ii. The elderly
iii. Drug addicts
b. Signs and symptoms of osteomyelitis include:
i. Fever
ii. Chills
iii. Erythema over the site
iv. Swelling
v. Pain
c. Treatment of osteomyelitis includes:
i. Recognition
ii. Splinting
iii. Transport
d. Patients require antibiotics and possibly surgery.
2. Tumor: Growth of abnormal tissue
a. Bone tumors may be benign or malignant and can cause pathologic fractures in the bone as they get larger.
b. The most common bone tumors are:
i. Multiple myelomas
ii. Ewing’s sarcoma (mostly found in children and adolescents)
iii. Osteosarcoma
iv. Chondrosarcoma
c. Signs and symptoms of bone tumors include:
i. Pain
ii. Signs of infection (night sweats and difficulty using the extremity)
iii. Swelling or a mass of tissue at the bone site
d. Treatment of bone tumors includes:
i. Comparing the extremities for asymmetry
ii. Splinting
iii. Transport for further evaluation
C. Disorders of the spine
1. Back pain can be assessed into three categories:
a. Acute: less than 6 weeks in duration
b. Subacute: from 6 to 12 weeks
c. Chronic: greater than 12 weeks
2. Most back pain resolves in 4 weeks; pain lasting longer warrants additional examination.
3. Assessment of a patient with back pain includes:
a. Obtaining a history including a SAMPLE history
b. Examination of the ABCs
c. Evaluation of pain levels
i. Diminishing pain level with decreased movement is a typical with a spinal disorder.
ii. Pain suggests the potential for a more severe underlying process.
d. Physical examination
i. Look for contusions or abrasions.
ii. Check for signs of infection such as warmth or drainage.
iii. Check for sign of bacterial infection such as point tenderness with percussion along the spine.
e. Neurologic and function examination
D. Cauda equina syndrome
1. Caused by a spinal chord compression due to:
a. Tumor
b. Herniated disk
c. Infection
d. Hematoma
2. Differentiated from typical back pain by neurologic involvement
3. The most common sensory deficit is in the buttocks, perineum, and posterior-superior thighs in a saddle-like distribution pattern.
4. Signs and symptoms of cauda equina syndrome include:
a. Urinary retention
b. Sudden loss of bowel or bladder incontinence
i. Back pain with bowel or bladder symptoms warrants urgent transport.
E. Spinal stenosis
1. A narrowing of the spinal canal that can occur at single or multiple levels
2. Signs and symptoms of spinal stenosis include:
a. Back pain that is:
i. Exacerbated by prolonged standing and extension
ii. Relieved by rest and spinal flexion
F. Joint abnormalities
1. Arthritis: Inflammation of a joint
a. It can have multiple etiologies and presentations.
b. May lead to joint destruction, sepsis, or even death
c. Three common types of arthritis:
i. Osteoarthritis (OA): Disease of the joints that occurs when they age and wear
(a) Risk increases with age.
(b) Other risk factors include obesity and prior joint history.
ii. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): Systematic inflammatory disease affecting joints and other body systems
(a) Can be mild and progressive or full-blown and fatal
(b) Bone erosion creates susceptibility to fractures and dislocations, including subluxation of the cervical spine.
iii. Gout (crystal-induced arthritis): Condition in which the body struggles to eliminate uric acid (hyperuricemia)
(a) High concentrations of uric acid in the blood may crystallize in the synovial fluids of the joint.
d. Septic arthritis is caused by a bacterial infection.
i. The most commonly affected areas are:
(a) Knee
(b) Shoulder
(c) Hip
(d) Ankle
(e) Elbow
(f) Wrist
e. Signs and symptoms of OA include:
i. Progressive pain and stiffness
ii. “Cracking” or “crunching” of affected joints
iii. The most commonly affected areas are:
(a) Spine
(b) Hands
(c) Knee
(d) Hips
f. Signs and symptoms of RA include:
i. Symmetric involvement of the hands, feet, or wrists (although any joint combination is possible)
ii. Insidious or acute onset
g. Signs and symptoms of gout include:
i. Hot, red, swollen joint
ii. Decreased ROM
iii. More than 50% of cases present in the big toe.
h. Signs and symptoms of septic arthritis include:
i. Patient history of IV drug use
ii. Fulminant presentation of toxicity, fever, and altered level of consciousness
iii. In the elderly, presents more insidiously with malaise, anorexia, and lack of fever.
i. Treatment of OA includes:
i. Low-impact physical therapy
ii. Pain control, such as anti-inflammatory medications
iii. Joint injections
iv. Joint replacement surgery (in extreme cases)
j. Treatment of RA includes:
i. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)
k. Treatment of gout includes:
i. Stabilization
ii. Pain relief
iii. Transportation to an emergency department
2. Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE): Problem in the hip that affects the epiphysis of the femur
a. Occurs in children and adolescents, particularly in overweight children
b. Gradual onset condition
c. Signs and symptoms of SCFE include:
i. Difficulty walking and weight-bearing
ii. Noticeable limp
iii. Pain and limited flexion and rotation at the hip
G. Muscle disorders
1. Myalgia: Muscle pain that is a symptom of another underlying issue, such as:
a. Stress or straining of the muscle (most common)
b. Viral infection
c. Nutritional deficiencies
d. Metabolic myopathy
e. Medication
i. Vaccinations
ii. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors
iii. Cholesterol-lowering medication
iv. Cocaine use
f. Diseases
i. Flu
ii. Lyme disease
iii. Malaria
iv. Roundworm
v. Lupus
vi. Muscle abscesses
2. Myalgia typically produces short periods of intense pain in a diffuse area.
a. Pain increases with activity, decreases with rest.
3. Treatment of myalgia includes:
a. Rest
b. Administration of NSAIDs
H. Overuse syndromes
1. Tendinitis and bursitis
a. Tendinitis: Tendon becomes inflamed from frequent, repetitive use of nearby muscle
i. Characterized by point tenderness and increased pain with movement
b. Bursitis: Bursa becomes painful and inflamed from frequent, repetitive use of nearby muscle
i. Also characterized by pain that increases upon movement
c. Treatment of tendinitis and bursitis includes:
i. ICES
ii. Pain medication
2. Carpal and cubital tunnel syndromes
a. Carpal tunnel syndrome: Condition that occurs when the median nerve at the wrist is compressed where it passes through the carpal canal
i. Compression may be caused by:
(a) Inflammation or swelling of surrounding tissue
(b) Narrowing of the canal
(c) Pressure from outside the canal
ii. Symptoms include numbness and hand tingling, especially in the index, thumb, and middle fingers.
b. Cubital tunnel syndrome: Condition that occurs when the ulnar nerve is compressed at the cubital tunnel along the outer edge of the elbow
i. Symptoms include:
(a) Burning
(b) Numbness
(c) Tingling
(d) Possible partial loss of function of the pinkie finger and in the medial aspect of the ring finger
c. Treatment of carpal and cubital tunnel syndromes includes:
i. Recognition, splinting, and transport
ii. Rest of the affected extremity
iii. Removal of the underlying cause (typically occupational)
iv. Possible physical therapy
v. Surgical decompression of the canal (in extreme cases only)
3. Polyneuropathy
a. Occurs when there is simultaneous dysfunction of multiple peripheral nerves
b. Symptoms can present as motor, sensory, or both.
i. May develop over days or weeks and are considered acute
c. Guillan-Barre syndrome
i. Most common polyneuropathy
ii. Results in inflammation and demyelination of peripheral nerves
iii. Patients typically have a recent history of illness.
iv. Peaks in 10 to 14 days, but recovery takes months, and full recovery may not be possible.
d. Poliomyelitis
i. Affects the musculoskeletal system in a less organized and more centralized pattern than Guillan-Barre
ii. Produces asymmetric paralysis of the lower extremities and does not include sensory loss
iii. Risk of respiratory muscle paralysis
iv. Progression of paralysis stops when the patient becomes afebrile.
v. Due to vaccination, incidences are rare.
e. PPE is essential during assessment.
i. ABCs, current history, and transport are mandated.
ii. Pain management should be considered.
I. Soft-tissue infections
1. Myositis: Inflammation of the muscle caused by injury, infection, or overuse
a. Signs and symptoms include:
i. Signs of infection (fever)
ii. Muscle weakness
iii. Fatigue on exertion
b. Treatment is based on patient presentation
2. Fasciitis: Inflammation of the fascia
a. The most serious form is necrotizing (“flesh-eating”).
b. Signs and symptoms include:
i. History of vector transmission, insect bites, or jellyfish stings
ii. Red or warm skin
iii. Fever
iv. Night sweats/chills
v. Vomiting/diarrhea
c. Take standard precautions, and properly handle contaminated articles.
d. Transport to the hospital for diagnosis.
3. Gangrene: Caused when the blood supply to tissue is interrupted or stopped
a. Wet gangrene causes sepsis and possible death within hours.
b. Dry gangrene may take months to develop.
c. Usually caused by diabetes or atherosclerotic peripheral vascular disease
i. May also be caused by trauma
ii. Smokers are at a higher risk.
d. Characterized by a bad odor
e. Late signs include discoloration of limbs
f. Take standard precautions, and transport the patient rapidly.
4. Paronychia: Bacterial infection of the hand located near the nail plate
a. Untreated, it can spread through the circulatory and lymphatic systems.
b. Characterized by a small pustule or redness, with or without pus
c. Transport for antibiotic treatment and/or lancing of abscesses
5. Flexor tenosynovitis of the hand: Caused by an infection resulting from penetrating trauma
a. Involves the sheath of the tendons that flex the fingers
b. Presents especially in patients with RA
c. Signs and symptoms of flexor tenosynovitis include:
i. Limited mobility
ii. Swelling
iii. Redness
d. Transport for infection treatment and orthopedic intervention.
XII. Summary
A. Injuries and complaints related to the musculoskeletal system are one of the most common reasons that patients seek medical attention.
B. Musculoskeletal injuries are sometimes very dramatic, but attention should not be focused on them until life-threatening conditions have been addressed.
C. You have a vital role in reducing the complications associated with musculoskeletal injuries by promptly and effectively splinting injured extremities.
D. Assume the existence of a fracture whenever a patient who reports a musculoskeletal injury has deformity, bruising, decreased range of motion, or swelling.
E. Always perform and record an accurate neurovascular examination before and after splinting an injured extremity.
F. Check penetrating injuries for underlying fractures or other musculoskeletal injury.
G. Musculoskeletal injuries are likely to be accompanied by hemorrhage.
H. When a dislocation is associated with absent distal pulses, obtain medical direction to determine whether the injury should be reduced.
I. Look for injuries to the chest and abdomen, and fully stabilize the spine when patients have evidence of a high-energy injury, such as a femoral shaft or scapular fracture.
J. Because fractures may be associated with significant blood loss, resuscitation with IV fluid may be necessary.
K. Pelvic fractures are potentially lethal injuries owing to the massive potential for blood loss.
L. Posterior sternoclavicular joint dislocations are potentially fatal due to possible damage to underlying structures.
M. Never forget the ABCs! Do not become distracted; the fracture can wait if airway, breathing, or circulation problems are noted.
N. Pediatric fractures are different in that the bones of children contain growth plates that are weaker and make children more susceptible to fractures than sprains. Joint dislocations do not usually occur without an associated fracture. Such an injury can occur from a low-energy mechanism of injury (MOI), and the usual tenderness, swelling, and bruising may not be present.
O. Remember to consider whether the MOI suggests possible abuse. Observe the relationship between the parent and child. Adjust your approach to one that is appropriate for the child’s age.
P. Musculoskeletal injuries can lead to numerous complications, including vascular injuries, neurovascular injuries, compartment syndrome, crush syndrome, and thromboembolic disease.
Q. Blood vessels can be damaged following a musculoskeletal injury. Loss of blood flow to the area of the musculoskeletal injury is called devascularization.
R. Neurovascular injuries include impalement or laceration of nerves of a plexus, leading to a neurologic deficit. Neurovascular injuries can also occur following a joint dislocation.
S. Compartment syndrome occurs when bleeding or swelling increases within a compartment to the point that the pressure within that compartment impairs circulation. This can cause pain, sensory changes, and muscle death.
T. Crush syndrome occurs when a prolonged compressive force impairs muscle metabolism and circulation. When the compressive force is released, toxins enter the patient’s circulation.
U. Nontraumatic musculoskeletal disorders can be highly complex medical issues encompassing aspects of rheumatology, neurology, oncology, hematology, and infectious diseases. Nontraumatic musculoskeletal disorders include bony abnormalities such as osteomyelitis and tumors, disorders of the spine including low back pain and disc disorders, joint abnormalities, muscle abnormalities, overuse syndromes, and soft-tissue infections.
V. Slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) is a problem in the hip that affects the epiphysis of the femur. It occurs in children and adolescents. The most common sign is difficulty in walking and possible pain at the hip. Transport these patients for evaluation.
W. Types of arthritis include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and septic arthritis. Gout can be treated with immobilization, pain relief, and transport.
X. Muscle disorders include myalgia and myositis. Myalgia is muscle pain that is a symptom of some other underlying issue. Myositis is inflammation of the muscle. Treatment will be based on the patient’s complaint and history. Transport for definitive diagnosis.
Y. Tendinitis and bursitis are overuse syndromes, which occur from frequent and repetitive use that results in inflammation. Tendinitis and bursitis are treated with ICES, pain relievers, and steroid injections.
Z. Paramedics may encounter patients with numbness, tingling, or pain in their wrist or hand. This can be from carpal tunnel syndrome or cubital tunnel syndrome. Prehospital treatment includes recognition, splinting, and transport.
AA. Polyneuropathy, or peripheral nerve syndrome, stems from actual nerve damage of the peripheral nervous system. Good history taking is important to provide a basis for a physician to begin diagnosis and treatment. Also, prehospital pain management should be considered.
BB. Soft-tissue infections include fasciitis, gangrene, paronychia, and flexor tenosynovitis of the hand.
CC. Fasciitis is inflammation of the fascia. The most serious form is necrotizing fasciitis. Recognition of this by EMS personnel is difficult but critical. Look for a history of vector transmission, insect bites, or jellyfish stings. Take standard precautions, properly handle contaminated articles, and transport to the hospital for diagnosis.
DD. Gangrene is caused when blood supply to tissue is interrupted or stopped. Suspect gangrene if the patient has chronic risk factors such as diabetes and there is numbness, coolness, or swelling of an extremity, and there is a very bad odor. Take standard precautions and transport.
EE. Paronychia is a bacterial infection located near the nail plate. If not recognized and treated, it can spread through the hand and into the circulatory and lymphatic systems. It is seen as a small pustule or redness, with or without pus. Provide transport.
FF. Flexor tenosynovitis of the hand is caused by an infection that is usually the result of penetrating trauma to the hand. Symptoms include swelling, redness, and limited mobility in the hand. Pay particular attention to patients with a history of rheumatoid arthritis, and provide transport.
Post-Lecture
This section contains various student-centered end-of-chapter activities designed as enhancements to the instructor’s presentation. As time permits, these activities may be presented in class. They are also designed to be used as homework activities.
This activity is designed to assist the student in gaining a further understanding of issues surrounding the provision of prehospital care. The activity incorporates both critical thinking and application of paramedic knowledge.
1. Direct students to read the “Assessment in Action” scenario located in the Prep Kit at the end of Chapter 37.
2. Direct students to read and individually answer the quiz questions at the end of the scenario. Allow approximately 10 minutes for this part of the activity. Facilitate a class review and dialogue of the answers, allowing students to correct responses as may be needed. Use the quiz question answers noted below to assist in building this review. Allow approximately 10 minutes for this part of the activity.
3. You may wish to ask students to complete the activity on their own and turn in their answers on a separate piece of paper.
1. Answer: A. Pathologic fractures
Rationale: Pathologic fractures are seen in patients with diseases that weaken areas of the bone, such as in elderly patients with osteoporosis.
2. Answer: C. Shortening
Rationale: The shortening seen in this patient’s right leg is characteristic of femur fractures.
3. Answer: D. bleeding from the broken bone ends.
Rationale: A visual inspection of the fracture site will usually reveal swelling at the fracture site due to bleeding from the broken bone and the accumulation of fluid.
4. Answer: C. ecchymosis.
Rationale: As blood infiltrates the tissues around the broken bone ends, ecchymosis will occur.
5. Answer: A. crepitus
Rationale: Palpation may reveal crepitus, a grating sensation, over the broken bone ends.
6. Answer: B. range of motion (ROM).
Rationale: Patients with fractures and dislocations commonly experience a significant decrease in the extremity’s range of motion (ROM).
7. Answer: D. open fractures.
Rationale: Open fractures break through the skin and often reveal the broken bone ends. They are sometimes called compound fractures.
8. Rationale: Because it may be difficult to differentiate among the various types of injuries in the field, it is best to err on the side of caution and treat every severe sprain as if it were a fracture. General treatment of sprains and strains is similar to that of fractures and includes the following (numbers 1 through 4 form the mnemonic ICES):
1. Immobilize. Immobilize or splint injured area.
2. Chill. Use ice or a cold pack over the injury.
3. Elevate.
4. Splint. Splint with an elastic bandage (usually applied at the hospital once radiography rules out a fracture).
5. Reduced or protected weight bearing
6. Pain management as soon as practical
9. Rationale: While performing a musculoskeletal exam, be sure to assess the 6 “P”s of musculoskeletal assessment: Pain, Paralysis, Paresthesias (numbness or tingling), Pulselessness, Pallor (pale or delayed capillary refill in children), and Pressure. Assess how well patients can identify specific tactile stimuli by having them close their eyes and by touching different fingers or toes bilaterally as they tell you where you are touching.
A. Review all materials from this lesson and be prepared for a lesson quiz to be administered (date to be determined by instructor).
B. Read Chapter 38, Environmental Emergencies, for the next class session.
1. Identify and describe two ways in which skeletal muscle is affected by the amount of training and work to which they are subjected.
Answer: Due to the fact that skeletal muscle has a high metabolic rate and demand for energy and oxygen, rigorous activity often prompts increased respiratory rates to increase oxygen delivery and the removal of carbon dioxide from tissues. Muscle fatigue occurs if energy supply does not meet energy demands. If fatigue occurs as a result of inadequate oxygen supply, resting will not help with quick recovery the way it would when it occurs as a result of increased activity. When there is inadequate oxygenation of muscle tissue and muscle contraction continues, anaerobic metabolism occurs which leads to the build up of lactic acid. Muscles that are unused will begin to atrophy or shrink while those that receive increased physical training may increase in size.
(pp 1759-1761)
2. How are the skeletal muscles innervated?
Answer: Skeletal muscle is innervated by somatic motor neurons. The upper extremities are innervated from the brachial plexus that are formed by a network of nerves originating at the C5-T1 level of the spinal cord. The lower extremities are innervated from the lumbar and lumbosacral plexuses formed by networks of nerves that originate at the L1-S4 level of the spinal cord. Each network of nerves result in the formation of multiple distinct nerves. In the upper extremities there are five: the axillary, radial, musculocutaneous, ulnar, and median nerves. In the lower extremities there are multiples, but they include the sciatic and femoral nerves. Somatic motor neurons in the skeletal muscle transmit electrical stimuli to the muscle that causes it to contract. Each combination of muscle and the neuron innervating it constitutes a motor unit. When the motor unit receives a signal to contract, it does so forcefully or not at all. If additional force for the contraction is needed, more neurons will signal additional muscle cells to contract in a process known as recruitment.
(p 1761)
3. Define and differentiate between direct and indirect force injuries.
Answer: Direct force injuries occur when an object that strikes the person transfers its energy to the point of impact. Soft tissues in the region of the impact absorb the energy first and when the amount of force exceeds the capacity of the soft tissue to dissipate it, a fracture will occur. With penetrating injuries, the speed of the object influences the effect more than the size. Penetrating injuries may lead to fractures or other forms of musculoskeletal injury. When an injury involves the impalement of an object, the amount of soft-tissue injury is consistent with what is seen in low-velocity penetrating injuries. Bones may be fractured if the impaled object strikes the bone. Stabilizing these objects reduces the risk of further injury. Indirect injuries occur when there is force applied to one region of the body but the injury is seen in another weaker musculoskeletal region due to transmission of the force through the skeleton. An example of this is seen with fractures in the weaker areas of bones such as the application of force at the the distal end of a bone such as the femur but the fracture occurs at the femoral neck where the force has traveled.
(pp 1763-1764)
4. What is the importance of the motor function and sensory exam when assessing the patient with a musculoskeletal injury?
Answer: When assessing the patient with a musculoskeletal injury, it is essential to assess the patient’s distal pulse, motor function, and sensory function. This assessment should be done whenever there has been an injury to an extremity. This may be delayed if the patient is experiencing a life-threatening injury that would take precedence. Based on the preinjury level of function in the extremity, you will want to establish a baseline before attempting any manual traction, positioning, or splinting of the injured extremity. You need to identify any preexisting deficits in function or sensation to identify what new deficits are present. If an intervention is applied such as manual traction, splinting, or immobilization, it is important to reassess the affected extremity to ensure no changes in distal pulses, motor function, or sensory function have occurred. If there are changes, it may indicate the intervention has increased neurological compromise of the extremity.
(pp 1771-1772)
5. Discuss the rationale and principles of splinting of injured extremities and fractures.
Answer: There are several reasons to consider splinting an injured extremity or fracture. In some cases you will need to control external hemorrhage at the site of the fracture such as in open fractures to minimize the risk of shock. You will also want to consider bandaging these sites to reduce or prevent the risk of infection at the site of an open fracture. Immobilization can also help control potential worsening of the injury by stabilizing the area or the entire extremity affected. Reducing movement can reduce the risk of increased internal hemorrhage caused by continued damage from broken bones and tearing of the vasculature in the soft tissue surrounding the fracture. Splinting can also aid in reducing pain at the site of the injury. For those patients with fractures, splinting reduces the additional damage that may occur in an unstable fracture such as soft tissue and nerve injuries. It may also reduce the incidence of muscle spasm at the site of the injury. Splinting is appropriate with other musculoskeletal injuries such as ligament and tendon injuries, as well as dislocations. Splinting serves to protect against further neurological damage, reduces the movement of the injured extremity, and potentially reduces pain and additional hemorrhage. For full spinal immobilization, there is a decrease in time needed on scene to perform multiple extremity injury splinting and to reduce or prevent spinal cord injury as a result of spinal injury.
(pp 1775-1776)
6. What is the rationale for emergency transport of the patient with compartment syndrome?
Answer: Compartment syndrome occurs when muscles surrounded by fascia, an inelastic membrane, are damaged and swelling or bleeding causes an increase in pressure within this compartment. As pressure increases, circulation to and from this area is impeded and may lead to pain, sensory changes, and muscle death. In the field, interventions such as splinting, bandaging, and PASG may be applied too tightly resulting in restriction of circulation. Plaster casts may also cause this increased restriction if there is damage to the area underneath. Several internal factors, including bleeding from fractures, dislocations, crush injuries, vascular injuries, soft-tissue injuries, bleeding disorders, or snake bites, may cause compartment syndrome. The resulting bleeding or swelling from these types of injuries may result in compartment syndrome. Compartment syndrome can also occur when proteins and fluid leak from the vasculature into the interstitial space. In prehospital care, the goal is to get the patient to an emergency facility prior to loss of distal pulses in the extremity. There is no treatment available in the field currently for compartment syndrom, and surgery is required to reduce or prevent muscle death.
(pp 1780-1781)
7. Discuss the risk of thromboembolic disease following musculoskeletal injuries.
Answer: Thromboembolic disease is a significant cause of death following musculoskeletal injuries. These may include deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is identified by disproportionate swelling of an extremity, discomfort in the extremity worsening with use, and warmth and erythema of the affected extremity. If the DVT dislodges, a pulmonary embolism can occur. The blood clot that has dislodged may occlude a portion or all of the pulmonary arteries resulting in sudden onset of dyspnea, pleuritic chest pain, dyspnea, tachypnea, tachycardia, low-grade fever, right-sided heart failure, shock, and potentially cardiac arrest. Fat emboli are a risk particularly in those patients with long bone or pelvic fractures. In these injuries, fat droplets may become lodged in the vasculature of the lungs. There is limited prehospital treatment for thromboembolic disease so identifying the emergency and initiating rapid transport is essential. It is important to maintain the patient’s airway, provide adequate oxygenation, and ensure intravascular volume.
(pp 1781-1782)
8. Identify and describe the four main types of pelvic fractures including associated risks.
Answer: Pelvic fractures account for a small percentage of all fractures, but they are responsible for a significant number of deaths resulting from blunt trauma. Severity of the injury influences mortality rates. Pelvic fractures are classified into four types. In a Type I injury, there may be avulsion fractures, fracture of the pubis or ischium, fracture of the iliac wing, sacrum, or coccyx. Type II injuries may include a single fracture of the pelvic ring, subluxation of the pubic symphysis, or fractures near the sacroiliac joint. Type III injuries involve multiple breaks of the pelvic ring, and Type IV injuries involve the acetabulum. When the pelvis is fractured, other structures such as the bladder, urethra, rectum, vagina, and sacral nerve plexus can be damaged. There are also a number of vessels in and around the pelvic structure that can become damaged such as the veins within the pelvis, the internal or external iliac vessels, and the arteries in the lumbar region. Injuries such as the anterior-posterior compression pelvic ring disruption have the potentail for massive blood loss because of the increase in the volume of the pelvic area. Vertical shearing may also increase the pelvic volume. Straddle fractures can increase the risk of damage to the lower genitourinary system. Open pelvic fractures such as those seen in penetrating or blunt trauma caused by a high-velocity injury have very high mortality rates as a result of major vascular structure damage and life-threatening hemorrhage. Proper identification of the presence of a pelvic fracture, stabilization of the pelvis, initiation of IV fluid administration to maintain adequate tissue perfusion, and rapid transport to a trauma center is indicated for these injuries.
(pp 1784-1786)
9. When should the Thompson test be performed in the field? For what type of injury is it indicated?
Answer: The Thompson test can be performed in the field to identify an Achilles tendon rupture. It is performed by having the patient assume a prone position, then squeeze the calf muscles of the injured leg. If the foot does not move, the Achilles tendon has likely been torn. The rupture of the Achilles tendon usually occurs in athletes over 30 years of age involved in start-and-stop sports. Indications of the injury are pain from the heel to the calf and a sudden inability for plantar flexion of the foot. Surgery is required for these injuries.
(p 1792)
10. What is the importance of a systematic physical examination and thorough patient history for patients with nontraumatic musculoskeletal disorders?
Answer: Nontraumatic musculoskeletal disorders are one of the leading cuases of disability in the United States. Patients presenting with these disorders typically do not have a life-threatening condition although neurovascular compromise may exist. Patients with these disorders typically have a history with previous testing and treatment or are under the care of a physician for the disorder already. During the assessment, it is important to determine if the recommended treatment is being followed and whether the patient is compliant with medications and physical therapy if ordered. Some spinal disorders may be exacerbated by exertional stress or overloading and should be assessed for associated trauma. Neurologic and function examination should be performed prior to moving the patient. In cauda equina syndrome, there may be new onset sensory deficit and sudden loss or changes in bowel or bladder function. Special positioning may be required to achieve patient comfort for those patients with pain exacerbated by extended sitting, standing, or extension of the extremity.
(pp 1792-1795)
1. Identify and describe two ways in which skeletal muscle is affected by the amount of training and work to which they are subjected.
2. How are the skeletal muscles innervated?
3. Define and differentiate between direct and indirect force injuries.
4. What is the importance of the motor function and sensory exam when assessing the patient with a musculoskeletal injury?
5. Discuss the rationale and principles of splinting of injured extremities and fractures.
6. What is the rationale for emergency transport of the patient with compartment syndrome?
7. Discuss the risk of thromboembolic disease following musculoskeletal injuries.
8. Identify and describe the four main types of pelvic fractures including associated risks.
9. When should the Thompson test be performed in the field? For what type of injury is it indicated?
10. What is the importance of a systematic physical examination and thorough patient history for patients with nontraumatic musculoskeletal disorders?
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