Nursing care plan for fractured hip

Introduction

A nursing care plan for a fractured hip is used to provide systematic, evidence based and individualized patient care. The plan should be designed to address patient needs as identified through physical and mental health assessments for the best possible patient outcomes. This plan of care will take into consideration the current medical condition, as well as other physical, psychological, and holistic needs.

Assessment

Anatomical Dysfunction: Fracture of the hip occurs when the head of the femur is traumatized (usually from a fall) and fractures in two or more places. This disruption to the physical structure of the hip can cause varying levels of pain, immobility and loss of normal functional abilities.

Physiological Dysfunction: Loss of range of motion in the affected area, increase in inflammation, muscle spasticity, decrease in proper circulation in the lower extremities, swelling, and risk of thromboembolism.

Nursing Diagnosis

Pain related to tissue trauma and immobility: A patient with a hip fracture can experience extreme pain that can significantly interfere with their daily activities, mobility, and overall quality of life.

Risk for Disuse Syndrome related to immobility: Patients who are experiencing immobility in the affected area may be at an elevated risk for disuse syndrome due to decreased muscle strength, endurance, and diminished ability to perform self-care activities.

Outcomes

The patient will experience decreased pain: Pain medication will be administered on a routine schedule, as recommended by their doctor or healthcare provider. Additionally, other interventions such as hot/cold therapy, massage, and exercises to increase flexibility and range of motion will help patient during the recovery process.

The patient demonstrate improved mobility: The patient will be encouraged to participate in range of motion exercises, stretching exercises, and other activities as appropriate and/or prescribed in order to gradually restore full mobility of the hip joint.

Interventions

• Administer medications according to physician orders.
• Provide frequent passive range of motion (ROM) and muscle strengthening exercises.
• Educate patient regarding activity modifications.
• Provide postural exercises to maintain proper body alignment.
• Provide hot/cold packs to promote relief.

Rationales

Administer medications according to physician orders: Medication will help reduce pain and inflammation, as well as promote healing.

Provide frequent passive range of motion (ROM) and muscle strengthening exercises: Range of motion exercises help improve flexibility and reduce the risk of disuse syndrome, while muscle strengthening exercises help the patient to regain strength and maintain muscle control.

Educate patient regarding activity modifications: Educating the patient about activity modifications helps to ensure proper healing and prevents further injury.

Provide postural exercises to maintain proper body alignment: Postural exercises help the patient maintain properly aligned joints to avoid misalignment due to prolonged immobility.

Provide hot/cold packs to promote relief: Alternating hot and cold compresses can be used to reduce pain and inflammation.

Evaluation

The evaluation of the patient's progress should include an assessment of pain levels after interventions, range of motion, strength, adherence to activity modifications, and ongoing patient education.

Conclusion

A nursing care plan for a fractured hip should be individualized to meet patient’s needs. The plan should include interventions that address the pain and immobility associated with a hip fracture, along with measures that promote healing and restoration of normal function. Ongoing evaluation and revising of the care plan is necessary for the best possible patient outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What activities should be avoided following a hip fracture?
  It is important to avoid any activities that increase the risk of further injury, such as excessive twisting, bending, over-stretching, or running.
• How long does the healing process take after a hip fracture?
  The healing process following a hip fracture usually takes 6-8 weeks. However, it can take longer depending on the severity of the injury and the patient’s overall health.
• What medications are used to treat a hip fracture?
  Common medications used to treat a hip fracture include pain medications, anti-inflammatories, muscle relaxants, and bone density-strengthening medications.
• What is the recovery time for a hip fracture?
  Recovery time for a hip fracture can vary greatly depending on the severity of the injury, the patient’s overall health, and whether or not surgery is required. It is important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and follow-up with scheduled appointments to ensure a safe and successful recovery.
• What type of exercises should be done following a hip fracture?
  Fitting exercises are often recommended to help restore range of motion, reduce immobilization-related complications, and help increase strength. Examples of appropriate exercises include range of motion exercises, stretching exercises, and muscle strengthening exercises.