When you need care the most, we’re here for you. The fellowship-trained orthopedic trauma physicians at Quincy Medical Group provide national quality care in our community so you can heal from traumatic injuries with the support of your friends and family nearby.
We understand recovering from traumatic injuries can be a scary time for you and your family. Our care team of surgeons, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, physical therapists and others work with you to ensure you understand your treatment and have all the care you need.
Your Hospital Stay
You may be in the hospital for just a few hours for a minor injury like a wrist fracture or for weeks after major injuries from a car or farming accident.
Your Care Team
During your hospital stay, you’ll likely see a team of doctors, physician assistants, and nurses who all work together to care for you. Our orthopedic trauma surgeons focus on healing your broken bones, while an internal medicine doctor may focus on injuries like cuts or bruises.
Diagnostic Tests
You will undergo many tests throughout your stay to look at your injuries and monitor how you are healing. Your tests may include:
- X-rays
- Computed tomography (CT) scans
- Blood tests
Surgery
Based on your test results, you and your orthopedic surgeon can make a personalized surgery plan to treat broken bones. Every trauma surgery is different because every fracture is unique. Our surgeons have specialized experience and training that help them plan the right surgery for you based on your injuries and the latest medical evidence.
You may need more than one surgery if you have multiple broken bones or very complex fractures. During surgery, your doctor may place pins, screws or rods in your bones. These fixation devices hold your bones in place so they can heal. You may have these devices for the rest of your life or they may be removed after you have healed. Your doctor will talk to you about your long-term treatment plan before your surgery so you know what to expect.
Physical Therapy
You will also work with a physical therapy team while in the hospital. Getting back on your feet quickly after surgery can help your body heal faster. A physical therapist will help you learn to walk with assistive devices, like crutches or a walker. They will teach you how to move safely so you don’t fall or put yourself at risk of another injury.
Throughout your stay, we strive to keep you comfortable as possible so you can participate in physical therapy and rest. We will provide pain medicine so you can focus on healing.
Going Home After Your Hospital Stay
No one plans to experience a traumatic injury. But a good plan for your care both in the hospital and at home is key to faster healing.
Before you return home, you will work with a team of discharge planners to prepare to leave the hospital. Your discharge planners will help you:
- Determine if you will return home or to a rehabilitation facility.
- Receive any equipment you need like a wheelchair or crutches.
- Access in-home or outpatient physical therapy and occupational therapy services.
- Ensure you have the prescriptions you need to manage pain or other problems.
- Understand how to care for your injury at home, such as not getting a cast wet.
- Schedule your first follow-up appointment with your orthopedic trauma physician.
By following your discharge plan and attending your follow-up appointments, you can ensure that you continue to heal safely and quickly.