PT Question of the Week – Fractured humerus

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You are examining a 68-year-old male who fractured his right mid humerus from a fall three months ago. His arm was placed in a sling for six weeks with instructions to avoid moving it.

The patient’s medical history reveals that he has emphysema which he uses oxygen supplementation during the evenings, and has been prescribed low doses of prednisone for the emphysema and medication for his prostate but could not remember its name. The patient also reports that he also had a right total hip replacement (THR) one year ago, a pin inserted into his right wrist seven months ago, and a toe fracture from stubbing his foot against a curb. 

Subjectively, the patient complains of right shoulder and arm pain when he moves, and the pain reaches the level of 7/10. As he tells you this, you note that the patient has some shortness of breath. 

Even at this early stage in the examination, what two issues have you identified that will require further exploration?

  1. Multiple fractures
  2. Prednisone prescription
  3. Emphysema
  4. A and B

The solution will be posted in a few days

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