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1.
The patient’s history reveals very active young male with a risk-led lifestyle. Tibial fractures require the patient to remain non–weight-bearing for six weeks while in a long leg cast. This patient’s chart indicates this may be problematic.
2.
An expected finding is the presence of a tibial shaft fracture based on patient’s description of accident and current symptoms. The nurse expects the provider to determine if surgery is indicated or not. If not, the patient will be placed in a long leg cast.
3.
It is important to learn if the patient has any previous allergies to pain medications. Ensuring the patient has no allergies can prevent a reaction if the wrong medication is administered. The nurse should provide education regarding the need to maintain active knee and ankle range of motion during the recovery period. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) prophylaxis should also be administered to non–weight-bearing, lower-extremity fractures.