Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

In the case of a compound fracture, what is an essential part of the treatment plan?

1. Application of a topical antibiotic

2. Wound irrigation

3. Tdap vaccine

4. Tetanus vaccine and systemic antibiotics

The correct answer is: Tetanus vaccine and systemic antibiotics

In the context of treating a compound fracture, which involves a break in the bone that pierces through the skin, addressing the risk of infection is paramount. Administering a tetanus vaccine is crucial, especially if the patient's immunization status is not current or if there has been a significant lapse since their last tetanus booster. This vaccine protects against tetanus infection, which can occur when bacteria enter the body through wounds or open fractures. Alongside the tetanus vaccine, systemic antibiotics are necessary to prevent or treat infections that may arise from the exposure of the bone and surrounding tissue to the external environment. Infections in open fractures can lead to serious complications, including osteomyelitis, which is an infection of the bone, and can significantly delay healing or worsen the patient’s condition. While applying a topical antibiotic may be a supportive measure, it is not sufficient alone for treating the type of open exposure associated with compound fractures. Wound irrigation is important to cleanse the wound, but it does not address the need for systemic interventions to manage infection risks effectively. Thus, the combination of a tetanus vaccine and systemic antibiotics is a comprehensive approach essential in the treatment plan for a compound fracture.