A nurse is caring for a client who has skeletal traction applied to the left leg. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A reason: A client with diabetes mellitus presenting with acute ketoacidosis does not necessarily require a private room unless there are other infection control concerns. Acute ketoacidosis is a metabolic complication of diabetes that can be managed in a general ward setting with appropriate medical care and monitoring.

Choice B reason: An older adult client admitted with aspiration pneumonia would benefit from a private room if the pneumonia is caused by an infectious agent that requires droplet or airborne precautions. However, aspiration pneumonia is often a result of inhaling food, stomach acid, or saliva into the lungs, and not always infectious.

Choice C reason: A client with a compound fracture of the right femur would require a private room if there is an associated risk of infection due to the open nature of the injury. However, standard precautions and wound care can often be managed in a semi-private or general ward setting unless there are specific infection control issues.

Choice D reason: A client reporting fever, night sweats, and cough for 2 days may be exhibiting symptoms of a communicable disease such as tuberculosis. This client would require a private room with airborne precautions to prevent the spread of infection to other patients and healthcare workers.

Choice A reason: Removing the weights before changing the client's bed linens is not recommended. The weights are an integral part of the traction system and removing them could disrupt the traction, potentially causing harm or discomfort to the client. The weights must be maintained to ensure the effectiveness of the skeletal traction.

Choice B reason: Instructing the client to use their elbows to reposition themselves could be helpful, but it is not the primary action the nurse should take. While maintaining some degree of mobility is important, the nurse must ensure that the traction setup is not disturbed during any movement.

Choice C reason: Checking pressure points every 12 hours is important to prevent skin breakdown and ulcers, especially in immobilized patients. However, this is a routine action and not specific to the care of a client with skeletal traction. The nurse should check pressure points more frequently, considering the increased risk of pressure sores in immobilized patients.

Choice D reason: Providing the client with a trapeze bar is the correct action. A trapeze bar allows the client to independently reposition themselves while maintaining the integrity of the traction. It helps the client to move and shift weight, which can aid in preventing complications such as pressure ulcers and muscle atrophy. It also gives the client a sense of control and independence in their care.