CHAPTER 6 Musculoskeletal System^265
- diclofenac, diflunisal, etodolac, fenoprofen, flurbiprofen, ibuprofen, indo-
methacin, ketoprofen, ketorolac, meloxicam, nabumetone, naproxen, oxa-
prozin, piroxicam, salsalate, sulindac, tolmetin - Administer corticosteroids to decrease inflammation:
- hydrocortisone, dexamethasone, methylprednisolone, prednisolone, pre-
dnisone - Some are given orally.
- Some may be injected into the carpal tunnel area.
- Surgery when decompression of the carpal tunnel is necessary to relieve pres-
sure on the median nerve.
NURSING DIAGNOSES
- Pain
- Impaired mobility
- Disturbed sensory perception: tactile
NURSING INTERVENTION
- Assist the patient with hygiene if necessary before surgical correction and
with postoperative dressings after surgery. - Patients wearing wrist splints may need assistance with certain activities of
daily living (ADLs). - Assist the patient in exercising the hand; encourage performance of activi-
ties through physical therapy. - Monitor the motion and sensation in the hand following surgery—check cap-
illary refill, color, and sensation of fingers. - Encourage movement of fingers after surgery.
- Monitor postoperative dressing for drainage.
- Explain to the patient:
- Use, interactions, and side effects of anti-inflammatory medications.
- Proper use of wrist splints.
- Encourage appropriate exercises.
- Use of ergonomic devices, such as wrist rests or keyboard trays for com-
puter work.