How to Rehabilitate and Care for a Fracture

Rehabilitation nursing for fractures is a systematic process aimed at promoting fracture healing, restoring function, and preventing complications. The following are key points of rehabilitation care:

1. Adequate rest: After a fracture, patients should maintain sufficient rest and avoid excessive movement of the affected limb to reduce pain and promote healing.

2. Immobilization of the fractured area: Use of plaster casts, braces, bandages, or other devices to immobilize the fracture site, ensuring stability and preventing displacement of the fracture ends.

3. Cold and heat application: Initially, cold compresses can be used to reduce swelling and pain, followed by heat application in later stages to improve blood circulation.

4. Medication management: Pain-relieving medications may be used when necessary to alleviate discomfort.

5. Physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises: As soon as permitted, physical therapy and rehabilitation training should begin early. Initially, this may involve isometric muscle contractions, gradually progressing to range-of-motion exercises, strength training, and balance and coordination training. A personalized rehabilitation plan should be developed to help patients gradually regain mobility.

6. Nutritional and lifestyle adjustments: Increased intake of protein, vitamin D, and calcium is recommended to support bone health. Additionally, lifestyle modifications such as smoking cessation and limiting alcohol consumption are beneficial for recovery.