A 3-year-old is admitted for repair of a fractured femur and is placed in Bryant's traction. Which finding by the nurse indicates that the traction is working properly?

A. Cholecystitis, which is inflammation of the gallbladder, is not directly associated with diabetes mellitus. While people with diabetes may have other gastrointestinal issues, cholecystitis is not considered a long-term complication of diabetes.
B. Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas and is not a common long-term complication of diabetes. While chronic pancreatitis can lead to diabetes (type 3c diabetes), it is not primarily caused by diabetes itself. Thus, it is not considered a typical long-term complication of diabetes mellitus.
C. Presbyopia is the age-related loss of near vision due to the hardening of the lens in the eye. While individuals with diabetes can experience eye problems, presbyopia is a normal part of aging and not specifically a long-term complication of diabetes.
D. Diabetic neuropathy is a well-known long-term complication of diabetes mellitus. It results from nerve damage caused by prolonged high blood sugar levels. Neuropathy can lead to various symptoms, including pain, tingling, and loss of sensation, particularly in the extremities.

A. In this type of traction, the child’s buttocks should be elevated slightly off the bed to maintain the correct alignment and reduce pressure on the skin. However, a 15° angle may not be specifically necessary for indicating proper traction; what matters more is that the child is positioned correctly and comfortably.
B. While a reduction in pain can indicate that the traction is effective and that the fracture is stabilized, pain management is also influenced by medication and other factors. Therefore, while this is a positive finding, it is not the most definitive indicator of proper traction.
C. However, while it is essential that the pins are secure, the effectiveness of traction is more directly related to the positioning and suspension of the legs rather than just the pin security alone.
D. In Bryant's traction, the legs should be suspended to ensure proper alignment and immobilization of the fractured femur. The traction's effectiveness is best assessed by observing that the legs are correctly suspended and aligned, allowing for the necessary rest and healing of the bone.