Colle's fracture refers to the fracture of?

Appeared in: Daman & Diu Staff Nurse - 2018

Explanation

Colles' fracture is specifically defined as a fracture of the distal portion of the radius.
This injury is very common and typically results from a fall onto an outstretched hand (FOOSH).
The force of the fall causes the distal fragment of the radius to be displaced dorsally (posteriorly), leading to a characteristic 'dinner-fork' deformity.
The radius is the larger of the two forearm bones and is a primary weight-bearing bone, making it susceptible to this type of fracture.

Option A: The ulna is the other bone in the forearm, located on the medial side (pinky finger side). While it can be fractured, a Colles' fracture specifically involves the radius.
Option B: The humerus is the bone of the upper arm, extending from the shoulder to the elbow. A Colles' fracture is an injury to the wrist/forearm area.
Option D: The olecranon is the prominent bony projection of the ulna that forms the point of the elbow. A Colles' fracture occurs at the distal end of the radius, near the wrist.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Definition and anatomical location of a Colles' fracture as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses must perform frequent neurovascular checks on the affected limb post-injury and post-reduction to detect and prevent compartment syndrome, a limb-threatening emergency.
Patient education is crucial, focusing on cast care, signs of complications (increased pain, swelling, numbness, discoloration), and the importance of elevating the limb to control edema.
Colles' fractures are strongly associated with osteoporosis, making them a 'fragility fracture.' This finding should prompt the nurse to consider patient education on bone health, fall prevention, and screening for osteoporosis.

How to Approach the Question

Identify the core term in the question: 'Colle's fracture'.
Recognize this as a factual recall question that requires knowledge of orthopedic terminology.
Recall the definition of a Colles' fracture. It is one of the most common wrist fractures.
Mentally picture the anatomy of the arm and forearm: Humerus (upper arm), Radius and Ulna (forearm).
Associate 'Colle's fracture' with the distal radius. The olecranon is part of the ulna at the elbow, and the humerus is the upper arm bone, so these can be eliminated.
Select the option that correctly identifies the bone involved.

Concept Tested & Keywords

QUZ-Qo8xj6oe2Qe3e9frnZ

E6 Physiology Ganong 27e Vol 2 Part 3 p. 23-25

E6 Anatomy Applied Ashalatha 4e p. 262-264

E6 Anatomy BDChaurasia V1 10e p. 32-34

Practise the full Daman & Diu Staff Nurse - 2018

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