A patient in Russell's traction with a Pearson attachment for a fracture of the tibia complains of intense pain at the fracture site.The nurse assesses a temperature of 102° F and increased swelling at the fracture site.These assessment findings suggest:

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Osteomyelitis is a bacterial infection of the bone.The causative organism is most often Staphylococcus aureus,which enters the bloodstream from a distant focus of infection,such as a boil or furuncle,or from an open wound,as in an open (compound)fracture.It is usually found in the tibia or fibula,in vertebrae,or at the site of a prosthesis.Osteomyelitis has a sudden onset with severe pain and marked tenderness at the site,high fever with chills,swelling of adjacent soft parts,headache,and malaise.

A Patient in Russell's Traction with a Pearson Attachment for a Fracture