Fractures in children are fairly common, and they require prompt medical attention to promote proper healing and prevent long-term complications. Setting fractures correctly is crucial in ensuring optimal recovery.

However, there are certain mistakes that healthcare professionals must avoid. This article discusses the biggest mistakes that can occur when setting fractures in children and provides essential tips for achieving successful outcomes.

1. Insufficient assessment of the fracture

One common mistake when setting fractures in children is the failure to perform a comprehensive assessment of the fracture. It is essential to assess the fracture properly, including the type, location, and displacement.

Conducting a thorough assessment helps determine the appropriate treatment plan and ensures accurate reduction.

2. Inadequate immobilization

Proper immobilization is critical for favorable fracture healing. However, sometimes healthcare professionals may apply inadequate splints or casts, leading to ineffective immobilization.

Insufficient immobilization may result in poor fracture alignment and delayed healing, which can cause long-term complications.

3. Improper reduction techniques

Using incorrect reduction techniques can lead to suboptimal fracture alignment. It is crucial to apply appropriate reduction techniques based on the type and location of the fracture.

This helps achieve better alignment and enhances the chances of proper healing without complications.

4. Failure to consider growth plates

The growth plates in children’s bones are delicate and vulnerable to injury.

Failing to consider the presence and potential damage to these growth plates during fracture reduction can have long-lasting consequences on a child’s bone development. Healthcare providers should be cautious and employ techniques that minimize the risk of growth plate injuries.

5. Delayed diagnosis

A delayed or missed diagnosis of a fracture is a significant mistake that can lead to prolonged pain and potential complications.

It is important for healthcare professionals to have a high index of suspicion when assessing children with suspected fractures. Timely diagnosis allows for prompt treatment and appropriate fracture reduction.

6. Lack of pain management

Children with fractures experience significant pain, which can be distressing and hinder proper immobilization. However, some healthcare providers may overlook adequate pain management during the setting of fractures.

Effective pain management not only promotes patient comfort but also facilitates better fracture reduction by minimizing muscle spasms and movements.

7. Failure to involve a pediatric specialist

Complex fractures in children often require the expertise of a pediatric orthopedic specialist. Not involving a specialist when necessary can lead to suboptimal outcomes.

Pediatric specialists possess specialized knowledge and skills in dealing with fractures specific to children, optimizing the chances of successful fracture reduction.

8. Inadequate patient education

Proper patient education is essential when setting fractures in children. However, healthcare providers often neglect this crucial aspect.

Inadequate patient education can result in noncompliance with immobilization instructions, leading to poor fracture alignment and compromised healing. It is important to educate both the child and their caregivers on the importance of immobilization, activity restrictions, and signs of potential complications.

9. Insufficient follow-up and monitoring

After setting a fracture, regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor the healing process and detect any complications early. However, healthcare providers sometimes overlook the importance of post-setting monitoring.

Regular follow-up allows prompt intervention if there is any deviation from the expected healing progress or signs of potential complications.

10. Failure to address psychological impact

Fractures can have a significant psychological impact on children, particularly if they involve pain, limitations in daily activities, or need for ongoing medical attention.

Neglecting to address the psychological impact of fractures can hinder the child’s emotional well-being and potentially extend their recovery time. Healthcare providers should offer appropriate support and resources to aid the child’s psychological recovery alongside physical healing.

Conclusion

Setting fractures in children requires precision and attention to detail. Avoiding common mistakes is crucial in achieving successful outcomes and preventing complications.

Healthcare professionals must ensure comprehensive assessment, proper immobilization, accurate reduction techniques, consideration of growth plates, timely diagnosis, adequate pain management, involvement of pediatric specialists if needed, thorough patient education, regular follow-up, and addressing the psychological impact of fractures. By adhering to these principles, healthcare providers can effectively set fractures in children and facilitate optimal healing.