Who is Right?

[Delia37, MSN]

Hi,

Thank you for taking the time to read this thread.

My question may seem basic; however, there is very limited literature about it. Basically, what is the proper way to hold a limp with an external fixator.

I had a patient who sustained extensive tibial fracture from a MVA and after surgery, developed compartment syndrome, requiring a fasciotomy. While changing the dressing, the nurse assisting me, held the limp by the bar of the fixator; I asked her to hold the limp itself (graciously, refraining from questioning my request in front of the patient). However, afterward she told me she was taught to hold a limp by the fixator, to which I disagreed. This generated a lively discussion in the unit, with everyone basically doing one or the other (some even said both ways were correct). I didn't have a chance to ask the surgeon and as I mentioned, literature about it is minimal...what is your practice?

Again, thank you for your attention (and responses).

[PaSSiNGaS, MSN]

What is a limp?

I'm guessing you mean limb, and in the OR the Ortho surgeons all hold the limbs by the actual fixator with no issue.

[Ruby Vee, BSN]

A more descriptive title (and perhaps posting in an ortho forum) might get you more useful answers.

[offlabel]

A more descriptive title (and perhaps posting in an ortho forum) might get you more useful answers.

I'll just add that lifting the leg by itself puts shear stress on the bone(s) because it is the leg that is supporting the load of the frame instead of the other way around. It hurts more and opposes the external fixation.

[Greenclip]

I was taught to always lift the limb and never use the ex-fix as a "handle".

[William2]

Are ortho surgeon just did this on a patient that developed compartment syndrome. Person was a major trauma that I was taking care of. I've always used the fixator as a handle and he did it in front of me so.... I see no issue.