Ateneo de Zamboanga University

College of Nursing

NURSING SKILLS OUTPUT (NSO)

Report No. 12
ARTHROSCOPY

I.DESCRIPTION:
Arthroscopy is a surgical procedure orthopaedic surgeons use to visualize, diagnose,
and treat problems inside a joint.
The word arthroscopy comes from two Greek words, "arthro" (joint) and "skopein" (to
look). The term literally means "to look within the joint."
In an arthroscopic examination, an orthopaedic surgeon makes a small incision in the
patient's skin and then inserts pencil-sized instruments that contain a small lens and lighting
system to magnify and illuminate the structures inside the joint. Light is transmitted through
fiber optics to the end of the arthroscope that is inserted into the joint.
By attaching the arthroscope to a miniature television camera, the surgeon is able to see the
interior of the joint through this very small incision rather than a large incision needed for
surgery.
The television camera attached to the arthroscope displays the image of the joint on a
television screen, allowing the surgeon to look, for example, throughout the knee. This lets
the surgeon see the cartilage, ligaments, and under the kneecap. The surgeon can
determine the amount or type of injury and then repair or correct the problem, if it is
necessary.

II. MATERIALS/ EQUIPMENTS NEEDED:

III.PROCEDURE
1. Explain procedure to patient.
2. Secure consent.
3. Perform handwashing.
4. Position client as deemed appropriate by physician.
5. Assist in giving anesthetics.
General or local anesthetic
Arthroscope
Sterile gloves
Cotton balls
Antiseptic solution

6. Clean or swab area with antiseptic solution
7. Orthopedician will carry out procedure.
8. Document findings

IV.DIAGRAM/ ILLUSTRATIONS:


V.NURSING RESPONSIBILITIES:
Before the Procedure:
Before having an arthroscopy, you will usually be given an appointment to attend a pre-
admission clinic.
During your appointment your general fitness will be assessed to ensure that you are ready
for surgery. You will also be given information about issues such as:
what and when you are allowed to eat and drink on the day of the surgery
whether you should stop or start any medications before surgery
how long it will take for you to recover from surgery
whether you will need to do rehabilitation exercises after surgery


During the Procedure:
An arthroscopy is usually carried out under general anaesthetic
Anti-bacterial fluid is used to clean the skin over the affected joint and a small
incision, a few millimetres long, is made to enable the arthroscope to be inserted
After the Procedure:
The arthroscope plus any attachments are removed along with any excess fluid
from the joint.
The incisions are closed using paper tape or stitches and covered with a sterile
dressing


REFERENCES:
http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00109
http://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/arthroscopy/basics/definition/prc-20014669



FEBRUARY 14, 2014 MRS. ELENA TIERRA RN MN
Date Clinical Instructor


MEJIA, MICHELLE ERIKA F.
BSN III-B