What are the five Ps in nursing assessment of a patient with a fracture?

Most neurovascular problems will appear in patients who have suffered a crush injury, or when a cast or splint has been used to stabilise a fracture. When assessing for neurovascular integrity, remember the five Ps: pallor, pain, pulse, paralysisand paraesthesia.

What is pressure compartment syndrome?

Compartment syndrome occurs when excessive pressure builds up inside an enclosed muscle space in the body. Compartment syndrome usually results from bleeding or swelling after an injury. The dangerously high pressure in compartment syndrome impedes the flow of blood to and from the affected tissues.

What are the 5 P’s of patient care?

During hourly rounds with patients, our nursing and support staff ask about the standard 5 Ps: potty, pain, position, possessions and peaceful environment. When our team members ask about these five areas, it gives them the opportunity to proactively address the most common patient needs.

What are treatments for compartment syndrome?

Treatments for compartment syndrome focus on reducing the dangerous pressure in the body compartment. Dressings, casts, or splints that are constricting the affected body part must be removed. Most people with acute compartment syndrome require immediate surgery to reduce the compartment pressure.

Which of the following is a sign of compartment syndrome?

There are five characteristic signs and symptoms related to acute compartment syndrome: pain, paraesthesia (reduced sensation), paralysis, pallor, and pulselessness. Pain and paresthesia are the early symptoms of compartment syndrome.

How is compartment syndrome diagnosed?

Diagnosis of compartment syndrome is confirmed with the measurement of pressures in the compartment by inserting a pressure-metered needle into the compartment. A resting pressure and a 5-minute post-exercise pressure measurement should be recorded.

How is compartment syndrome treated?

Acute compartment syndrome is often treated with surgical means; a surgeon will simply slice open the fascia and muscle to allow the pressure to escape, and then repair the site once the underlying cause of the pressure buildup has been addressed.