"AWARENESS AND KNOWLEDGE OF FRACTURE COMPLICATIONS AMONG ORTHOPEDIC PATIENTS: A DESCRIPTIVE STUDY"

Background: Fractures are breaks in bones that can also damage surrounding tissues, blood vessels, and organs. If not properly managed, fractures may lead to serious complications like ischemia, infections, and mobility issues. Understanding these complications helps patients recover faster and avoid further health problems. This study aimed to assess the knowledge about fracture complications among orthopedic patients at Tertiary care center. Methodology: A descriptive quantitative study was conducted among 60 orthopedic patients using a non-probability convenience sampling technique. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire that assessed their knowledge of fracture complications. Demographic information was also gathered to find associations with knowledge levels. Results: Out of 60 patients, 6.7% had excellent knowledge (A grade), 30% had good knowledge (B+ grade), 33.3% had moderate knowledge (B grade), 13.3% had below-average knowledge (C grade), and 16.7% had poor knowledge (D grade). The mean knowledge score was 17.63 with a standard deviation of 4.452. Age and education were significantly associated with knowledge levels (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The study revealed that most orthopedic patients had only moderate knowledge about fracture complications. There is a strong need for structured education programs to improve patient awareness, early identification of complications, and better health outcomes.