A fracture in which there is no break in the skin is known as

Appeared in: UPPSC 2017

Explanation

A closed fracture, also known as a simple fracture, is defined as a break in the bone where the overlying skin remains intact.
In this type of fracture, the bone fragments do not communicate with the external environment.
The key characteristic is the absence of an open wound at the fracture site, which is the main point of the question.

Option A: An open fracture is incorrect because it is defined by a break in the skin where the bone is exposed, which is the opposite of what the question describes.
Option C: A compound fracture is a synonym for an open fracture. It involves a break in the skin, making it an incorrect choice.
Option D: An impacted fracture describes the nature of the bone break (ends are driven into each other), not the condition of the skin. An impacted fracture can be either closed or open.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Classification of bone fractures based on skin integrity as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Differentiating between open and closed fractures is critical for nurses because open fractures have a significantly higher risk of infection (osteomyelitis) and require immediate antibiotic therapy and surgical intervention.
For any suspected fracture, the priority nursing assessment includes neurovascular checks (assessing pulse, color, sensation, temperature, and movement) distal to the injury to rule out compartment syndrome, a limb-threatening emergency.
What if the patient had a closed fracture but developed severe, throbbing pain that is unrelieved by analgesics, along with swelling and tenseness in the limb? The nurse should immediately suspect compartment syndrome and notify the physician, as this requires urgent fasciotomy to prevent permanent muscle and nerve damage.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key phrase in the question stem: 'no break in the skin'.
Next, recall the definitions of the different types of fractures provided in the options.
Analyze each option: 'Open' and 'Compound' imply a break in the skin. 'Impacted' describes the bone alignment, not the skin.
Match the key phrase 'no break in the skin' with the correct definition. A 'closed' fracture is one where the skin is not broken.
Therefore, select 'Closed fracture' as the correct answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Text Book Of Pediatric Nursing 3rd Panchali Pal — Part 3 (pp 477-702 of 713) p. 5-7

Practise the full UPPSC 2017

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.