This book aims to provide a solid foundation of current knowledge and understanding of the essence of orthopaedic nursing and gives direction and guidance to nurses to enable them to develop their own specific needs and objectives. It is intended for qualified nurses studying either at diploma or degree level, but pre-registration nurses should also find it a useful reference. The descriptions of nursing care apply mainly to the hospital environment, but the nurse's role within the health care team is referred to in every chapter, and some chapters focus on the interface of hospital and community care provision. The emphasis is on caring for the patient rather than treating the condition. The care of the child and orthopaedic trauma are not included. The first eight chapters describe and discuss the underlying principles and concepts of orthopaedic nursing, irrespective of the medical diagnosis. This should enable nurses to develop a flexible approach to care based on current research and knowledge. The second part of the book provides in-depth information on the nursing care of patients with specific conditions and problems. A number of different nursing models are used to describe nursing care, and case studies are included to illustrate and add validity to the discussions.