A nurse is caring for a client who has a fracture of the right hip. Which of the following types of traction should the nurse expect the client to have prior to hip surgery?

A. Ensure the rope knots are away from the pulleys.

While ensuring that rope knots are away from the pulleys is a general principle in traction care to maintain proper functioning, it is not directly related to the specific positioning of the child's feet in Buck's traction.

B. Ensure the child’s feet are against the footboard.

This statement is correct. Ensuring that the child's feet are against the footboard helps maintain proper hip alignment and prevent complications such as contractures. It is an important aspect of care when managing Legg-Calve-Perthes disease in Buck's traction.

C. Apply antibiotic ointment to the pin sites daily.

This action is not applicable to Buck's traction. Buck's traction involves the use of a boot or splint, and it does not include pins or pin sites. The use of antibiotic ointment for pin sites is more relevant in the context of skeletal traction.

D. Reduce the child’s fluid intake.

There is no indication to reduce the child's fluid intake specifically in the context of Buck's traction. Adequate hydration is generally important for overall health, and fluid restriction is not a standard practice for managing Legg-Calve-Perthes disease in Buck's traction.

A. The stockings are used to reduce pain.

This statement is not accurate. While antiembolism stockings may provide some relief from discomfort and swelling, their primary purpose is to prevent venous stasis and reduce the risk of blood clots, not to directly reduce pain.

B. The stockings prevent varicose veins.

This statement is not entirely accurate. While compression stockings can provide some support to veins, their primary role is in preventing blood clots (venous thromboembolism) rather than preventing varicose veins, which are typically related to venous insufficiency.

C. The stockings prevent venous stasis.

This is the correct answer. Antiembolism stockings are specifically designed to prevent venous stasis, which refers to the slowing or stagnation of blood flow in the veins. They exert gentle pressure on the legs to enhance blood circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots.

D. The stockings replace the need for postoperative leg exercises.

This statement is not accurate. While antiembolism stockings are a preventive measure, they do not replace the need for postoperative leg exercises. Leg exercises are important for promoting circulation, preventing complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and maintaining overall mobility after surgery.