Which of the following factors may adversely affect bone healing and therefore place the client at risk for long-term problems? Select all that apply

Question

A) Immobilization due to skeletal traction
B) Walking with a walker with minimal weight bearing on affected side
C) Delayed union at the fracture site within a period considered the normal healing time
D) History of uncontrolled diabetes mellitus with associated circulatory problems

Answer 1

Ans: C, D
Feedback:
Delayed union is the failure of a fracture to unite within the normal period (e.g., 20 weeks for a fracture of the tibia or femur in an adult). Malunion is caused by inadequate reduction or malalignment of the fracture. For healing to occur, the bone needs to be aligned and immobilized to maintain the alignment during bone remodeling. Individual factors that may delay bone healing are the client's age; current medications; debilitating diseases, such as diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis; local stress around the fracture site; circulatory problems and coagulation disorders; and poor nutrition. Weight bearing helps to maintain some area muscle tone while the bone is immobilized, avoiding muscle atrophy and loss of range of motion.