Musculoskeletal System
Musculoskeletal System
Musculoskeletal conditions, evidence, coding, and nursing diagnoses.
Major msk conditions
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis: low bone mass + microarchitectural deterioration increasing fracture risk. T-score ≤-2.5. Fragility fractures (hip, spine, wrist) are the clinical consequence. Prevention is key.
Hip Fx
Hip fracture in elderly (usually osteoporotic) has 20-30% 1-year mortality. Surgery within 48 hours improves outcomes. Types: femoral neck (intracapsular) and intertrochanteric. Comprehensive geriatric care essential.
RA
RA is systemic autoimmune symmetric polyarthritis. Predominantly small joints (MCPs, PIPs, wrists). Morning stiffness >1 hour. Anti-CCP antibodies are highly specific. Early DMARD therapy prevents joint destruction.
Gout
Gout is uric acid crystal deposition in joints. Classic: podagra (first MTP). Attacks are exquisitely painful. Chronic gout causes tophi and renal stones. Urate-lowering therapy prevents recurrence.
Septic Arthritis
Septic arthritis is joint space infection — orthopedic emergency. Most common: S. aureus. Hot, swollen, painful joint. Joint aspiration is mandatory. Rapid antibiotic therapy and drainage prevent joint destruction.
Compartment Syndrome
Compartment syndrome: elevated intracompartmental pressure compromising perfusion. Cause: trauma, tight casts, reperfusion injury. The 6 P's: Pain (out of proportion), Pressure, Paresthesia, Pallor, Pulselessness, Paralysis. Emergent fasciotomy.
Falls Prevention
Falls are the most common adverse event in hospitals. Risk factors: age >65, polypharmacy, orthostatic hypotension, cognitive impairment, weakness. ABCS: Activity, Bladder, Communication, Supervision.
Related nursing diagnoses
Nursing Diagnoses & Care Plans
Open the NANDA tool to review nursing diagnoses and care-plan concepts related to msk conditions.