What concern should a nurse mention regarding a fracture of an epiphyseal plate?

A fracture of the epiphyseal plate, often referred to as the growth plate, is significant in pediatrics because it plays a crucial role in the development of bone length and overall growth. When the epiphyseal plate is fractured, it can indeed affect normal bone growth since this area is responsible for the longitudinal growth of bones. If the fracture disrupts the zone of proliferating cartilage, it can lead to premature closure of the growth plate, resulting in a shorter limb on the affected side or other abnormalities in limb development.

Though other concerns related to the fracture, such as the risk of limb length discrepancies, are valid, the primary focus for the nurse should be on how the injury directly impacts the child's growth potential and skeletal development. Recognizing that the epiphyseal plate is essential for normal growth highlights why monitoring and appropriate management of such fractures is critical in pediatric care. This emphasizes the importance of careful assessment and potential interventions to mitigate long-term complications from growth plate injuries.