Why you should read this article:

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To enhance your clinical understanding of children’s forearm fractures and their management in the emergency department

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To familiarise yourself with the assessment of forearm fractures in children

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To develop techniques for managing painful procedures that affect children

Forearm fractures are the most common fractures among children and young people aged up to 19 years and these patients frequently present to the emergency department (ED). Many of these fractures can be treated in the ED without the need for inpatient admission. This article examines the assessment, diagnosis and management of forearm fractures. The authors also use a case study format to demonstrate best practice in the treatment of forearm fractures in this age group. The information in this article will enable ED nurses to enhance the experience of children and their families who present with forearm fractures.