Skin Injury: Immobilization

A fracture is considered compound when the skin is broken and the bone protrudes from the open fracture/wound. There is sometimes considerable soft tissue damage and a higher risk of infection from the open fracture.

Immobilizing the injured leg will help to prevent causing more damage to the soft tissue around the break. Immobilization may also keep from causing injury to the femoral artery which could be fatal. Keeping the femur as still as possible after the break may also help doctors realign the bone for setting and reduce healing time.

Any bone fracture is considered a risk for developing osteomyelitis; however, J.R. is at an increased risk for developing osteomyelitis as the skin was broken. This creates ample opportunity for bacteria