Frequency of cast-related complications and influencing factors in patients with casts

Autor: Mahsa Dadkhah-Tehrani, Mohsen Adib-Hajbaghery, Alireza Abedi
Rok vydání: 2022
Předmět:
Zdroj: International Journal of Orthopaedic and Trauma Nursing. 46:100955
ISSN: 1878-1241
DOI: 10.1016/j.ijotn.2022.100955
Popis: Casting is a common procedure in the treatment of extremity fractures, but it can lead to serious complications if applied improperly. However, there are few studies on the prevalence of cast-related complications.To assess the frequency of cast-related complications and influencing factors in patients referred to medical centers affiliated with a University of Medical Sciences.A descriptive study was conducted on 120 patients with limb fractures in need of casting. The study was conducted from November 1, 2020, to June 1, 2021. A checklist was used to assess complications, and complications were monitored by regular telephone contact. Each patient was followed up for 3 months. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data.Pain, impaired mobility, numbness, swelling, and a burning sensation inside the cast were the most common complications in the first week after cast application and occurred in 94.2%, 72.5%, 60.8%, 60%, and 54.2% of patients, respectively. Patients whose casts were applied by a nurse experienced more pain (p = 0.002), numbness (p = 0.02), and swelling (p = 0.05). The incidence of numbness was significantly higher in patients who were more active during convalescence (p = 0.04).Due to the importance of cast-related complications, in-service training programs for casting staff are needed. Furthermore, patient education and follow-up should be taken more seriously.
Databáze: OpenAIRE