Developing Practice in Orthopaedics

A two-day course aimed at all nurses working in elective and trauma orthopaedic settings. The course offers the opportunity to develop and/or consolidate skills and knowledge for the effective management of orthopaedic patients.

Course Content

Applied anatomy and physiology including:
Bone growth and development; skeletal system; nervous system; muscles and accessory structures; joints and movement;
Pre-operative and post-operative management care of the emergency and elective orthopaedic patient
Fluid balance, haemodynamic stability, liaison with outreach
Physiology, pharmacology and management of orthopaedic pain
The importance of nutrition
Bone, joint and wound infection
Wound management – types of wounds – surgical and traumatic, dressing selection, effective and accurate record keeping
Rheumatoid arthritis, rheumatic diseases, osteoarthritis and osteoporosis
Clinical and nursing management of:
Total joint replacement; spinal injuries; upper limb injuries; lower limb injuries and pelvic injuries
Care of the patient in: Plaster; traction; external fi xation
Post-surgical mobility and rehabilitation – working with the multi-disciplinary team
Discharge planning
Monitoring and improving quality of care
Legal and professional responsibility

Aims/Outcomes

• Enhance care by applying knowledge and skills to meet the needs of the client
• Understand the structure and function of the neuromusculo-skeletal system
• Analyse the care required for the patient undergoing orthopaedic treatment

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