Page 7 of A Cowboy's Halloween

Dr. Hernandez pulled up the X-ray images and examined them carefully. “Based on the X-ray, you have a fracture in your wrist. It appears to be a fracture of the radius bone.”

Her heart sank, and she grew slightly concerned. A fracture? Would she need a cast? How would she be able to work? Would she have to be sidelined? This movie was the biggest one she had ever worked on before, and the hype was already enough that people were talking about awards. The thought of her momentum being stalled made her sick to her stomach.

“What does that mean for my recovery?” she asked.

“Well, the good news is that this type of fracture can often be treated conservatively with a cast or splint. The bone should heal with proper care and immobilization. I’ll recommend you to a specialist who can provide you with more specific instructions on the type of cast or splint you’ll need.”

She let out a sigh of relief. “That’s good to hear. How long will it take to heal?”

“Healing times can vary, but typically, it may take several weeks for the bone to mend. Physical therapy might be necessary to regain strength and flexibility in your wrist once the cast is removed.”

Heather became resolute. “I’ll do whatever it takes to heal properly. My work involves intricate hand movements, so I want to make sure I recover fully.”

“That’s the spirit, Heather,” the doctor encouraged. “Follow the specialist’s recommendations, and you should be on the road to recovery. If you experience any severe pain, swelling, or any issues with the cast or splint, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention.”

Heather felt reassured by Dr. Hernandez’s explanation and advice. She understood the importance of following the treatment plan and attending the follow-up appointment with the specialist. While her injury was an unexpected setback, she was determined to focus on her recovery and get back to her creative makeup artistry as soon as possible.

Heather was given detailed instructions on how to care for her wrist and was scheduled for a follow-up appointment with a specialist. The urgent care staff also provided her with a medical certificate that she could share with her employer to explain her injury and the potential need for time off work. They provided her with pain relief and immobilized her wrist to prevent further injury.

Dr. Hernandez, the doctor attending to Heather’s fractured wrist, took a moment to explain how she should care for her injury and what to expect during the healing process.

The doctor offered instructions, “Heather, caring for your fractured wrist is crucial for a smooth recovery. Here are some key points to keep in mind. You’ll likely need a cast or splint to keep your wrist immobilized. This will help the fractured bone heal properly. It’s important not to try to remove the cast or splint on your own. Whenever possible, keep your injured wrist elevated above heart level. This can help reduce swelling and promote healing. I’ve prescribed pain medication to manage any discomfort you may experience. Follow the dosing instructions carefully, and don’t hesitate to take it if you’re in pain.”

“I don’t prefer to take medication,” she said, “but in this case…”

“Listen to your body,” he advised. “If you need it, it’s all right to take it.”

She nodded.

“You’ll need to see a specialist, an orthopedic surgeon, who will provide more specific guidance on the type of cast or splint you’ll receive. They’ll also discuss the timeline for your recovery. Avoid putting any weight on your wrist and refrain from using it for strenuous activities during the initial healing period. This may mean some temporary adjustments to your work and daily routine.”

“Got it.”

“Depending on the severity of the fracture, you might need physical therapy to regain strength and mobility in your wrist. The specialist will provide guidance on when to start and what exercises to perform. Keep an eye out for any signs of complications, such as increased pain, numbness, tingling, or discoloration of your fingers. If you notice any of these, contact the specialist or return to urgent care for evaluation.”

Heather was mentally taking notes. “Thank you, Doctor Hernandez. I appreciate your guidance. I’m committed to following these instructions to ensure a full recovery.”

“That’s the right attitude, Heather. Healing can take time, but with proper care and patience, you should be back to your creative makeup artistry in no time. Remember to attend your follow-up appointment with the specialist, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any concerns along the way.”

Heather had a clear understanding of how to care for her fractured wrist and a sense of determination to adhere to the recommended treatment plan. She knew that her journey to recovery had begun and that she was on the path to regaining full use of her wrist and returning to her passion for makeup artistry.

As Heather left the urgent care center with her wrist in a cast and her spirits lifted by the doctor’s reassurance, her friends remained by her side, ready to offer their support. She did feel tired, though, and was in a little discomfort from the fall and the medical evaluation.

Jenna carefully gave Heather a side hug. “How are you feeling now that you’ve seen the doctor?”

Heather smiled. “Better, thank you. Dr. Hernandez explained everything, and I have a plan for my recovery.”

Marcus seemed concerned. “That’s great to hear, but you’ve been through quite an ordeal. Do you feel up to driving home?”

Heather considered this. She would need to be driven back to the party to get her car, but the thought of driving right now…

“Well, with this cast, it might be a bit tricky,” she admitted.

Jenna piped up, “How about this? We’ll drive you home, Heather. It’s no big deal, and we can make sure that you get your car back tomorrow.”

Heather couldn’t feel more grateful. “That would be wonderful. Thank you, both. I appreciate your help.”

With Heather’s friends offering to drive her home, they made their way back to the parking area. They carefully helped her into the car, making sure she was comfortable and had everything she needed for the journey.

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