Venous thromboembolism after fibula fracture: a patient's perspective

Orthop Nurs. 2011 May-Jun;30(3):182-91; quiz 192-3. doi: 10.1097/NOR.0b013e318219ae94.

Abstract

Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) is a significant healthcare issue in the United States. This article presents information on the scope of the problem of VTE through a case study demonstrating the physical and psychosocial experiences of a 24-year-old woman with a fibula fracture treated in a short leg cast who developed a deep vein thrombosis that went on to become a pulmonary embolism. The patient experience is evaluated and supported by literature review in terms of risk factors as well as diagnostic, prophylaxis, medical treatment, and nursing implications. Analysis of a patient experience with VTE is valuable to add to the nursing body of knowledge for improvement of evidence-based practice.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Contraceptives, Oral, Hormonal / administration & dosage
  • Evidence-Based Nursing
  • Female
  • Fibula / diagnostic imaging
  • Fibula / injuries*
  • Fractures, Bone / complications*
  • Fractures, Bone / diagnostic imaging
  • Fractures, Bone / therapy
  • Humans
  • Obesity / complications
  • Radiography
  • Risk Factors
  • Venous Thromboembolism / etiology*
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Contraceptives, Oral, Hormonal