Assessing and Managing Patients with Musculoskeletal Conditions Article

Assessing and Managing Patients with Musculoskeletal Conditions - Article Example The journal, which is the focus of this critique, is entitled "Assessing and Managing Patients with Musculoskeletal Conditions", written by Nicola L. Judge. It was published in the Nursing Standard last September 2007. The journal dealt with how a nurse should assess patients presenting with musculoskeletal conditions. Some of the aims of this journal were for the readers understand the pathology of several common musculoskeletal conditions as well as the principles of common symptom management. The population discussed in this journal is musculoskeletal patients, and these would include athletes or people who engage themselves in an active lifestyle.Judge gave important anatomy and physiology concepts regarding the musculoskeletal system such as the type, classification and function of muscles, bones, ligaments and joints. The author also discussed common musculoskeletal conditions such as osteroarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteroporosis, fractures and sports injuries.Judge (200 7) also considered examination techniques and principles of nursing care. The health assessment procedures stated in this journal includes some of the most important information to ask the patient during history taking. The author stated that the cause, whether it is traumatic or non-traumatic should be first established. Next, the onset of the symptom, whether it is acute or gradual and the severity, pertaining to the extent of the affectation should be asked. Any precipitating and relieving factors should also be noted.