Pelvic fractures: classification and nursing management

Jennie Walker1

  • 1Academic Division of Orthopaedic and Accident Surgery, Queen's Medical Centre, Nottingham. jennie.walker@nottingham.ac.uk

Nursing Standard (Royal College of Nursing (Great Britain) : 1987)
|December 31, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Pelvic fractures, from falls or major trauma, demand careful nursing assessment due to risks of bleeding and organ injury. Understanding pelvic fracture management is key for patient recovery.

Area of Science:

  • Orthopedics
  • Trauma Surgery
  • Nursing Care

Background:

  • Pelvic fractures result from low-energy (e.g., falls) or high-energy trauma.
  • These fractures can cause severe internal bleeding and injury to pelvic organs.
  • Patients present complex needs, often with multiple injuries or comorbidities.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the anatomy, epidemiology, and classification of pelvic fractures.
  • To outline current management strategies for pelvic fractures.
  • To discuss potential complications associated with pelvic fractures.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review focusing on pelvic fracture management.
  • Analysis of epidemiological data and fracture classifications.
  • Synthesis of information on nursing assessment and intervention.

Main Results:

  • Pelvic fractures require comprehensive assessment, especially regarding associated bleeding and organ damage.
  • Management strategies vary based on fracture energy and patient factors.
  • Prompt identification of deterioration by nurses is critical for intervention.

Conclusions:

  • Nurses play a vital role in monitoring patients with pelvic fractures.
  • Effective management involves understanding fracture types, associated risks, and potential complications.
  • This review provides a foundational overview for healthcare professionals managing pelvic fractures.

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