Hand Fracture

GENERAL INFORMATION:

What is it?

• A hand fracture (frak-shur) is a break in one or more of the bones in the hand. It may also be called a "boxer's fracture." With a boxer's fracture, the hand bone that connects to the little finger is broken. Hand bones can be broken in many different ways, like during a fall or an accident when a closed fist hits something. People who punch walls or box without wearing boxing gloves often get a boxer's fracture.
  
  
• The hand that is broken may hurt and look swollen or bruised. If the skin breaks it may also bleed. Your hand may feel weak, numb, or tingly. Your hand may not look normal or may even look bent if the bones are out of place. Your caregiver may need to push the bones back into place. You may need surgery if you have a bad fracture. Healing of the broken bone usually takes 6 to 8 weeks. An x-ray will show when the broken bone is healed.

CARE AGREEMENT:

You have the right to help plan your care. To help with this plan, you must learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. You can then discuss treatment options with your caregivers. Work with them to decide what care may be used to treat you. You always have the right to refuse treatment.

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