Musculoskeletal trauma in children.

Musculoskeletal injuries are common in pediatric trauma victims and may result in extensive surgical intervention and long-term hospitalization. Rapid healing rates in children enhance the prognosis for children with musculoskeletal injuries and may decrease the rate of morbidity from nonunion, infection, and other complications. Nursing interventions to prevent complications and promote healing can be instrumental in decreasing the length of hospitalization, and psychosocial support may be crucial in helping the child cope with the changes associated with major musculoskeletal injuries.