Question

10. The family of a 6 year-old with a fractured femur asks the nurse if the child's height will be affected by the injury. Which statement is true concerning long bone fractures in children?

A) Growth problems will occur if the fracture involves the periosteum
B) Epiphyseal fractures often interrupt a child's normal growth pattern
C) Children usually heal very quickly, so growth problems are rare
D) Adequate blood supply to the bone prevents growth delay after fractures

Answer 1

Epiphyseal fractures in children can interrupt normal growth patterns, potentially leading to a shorter stature. It is essential to monitor the healing of fractures involving the growth plate despite children's rapid healing capabilities.

Step-by-step explanation:

Long Bone Fractures and Growth in Children

When answering the question of whether a child's height will be affected by a fractured femur, it is important to consider the location of the fracture and the unique healing capabilities of children. Epiphyseal fractures often interrupt a child's normal growth pattern. This is because the epiphyseal plate, also known as the growth plate, is where new bone is produced that contributes to the longitudinal growth of long bones. An injury to this area can potentially lead to early plate closure and thus affect height, resulting in a shorter stature than would be expected if the growth plate had not been disturbed.

While children generally heal quickly, and growth problems are considered rare, it is crucial to monitor the healing process of a fracture that involves the epiphyseal plate. Adequate blood supply is necessary for proper healing and prevention of growth delay, but it does not guarantee that growth won't be affected, especially if the growth plate is involved.