A nurse is developing a plan of care to prevent skin breakdown for a client with a spinal cord injury and paralysis. Which of the following nursing actions are appropriate? (Select all that apply.)

Choice A reason:

Skin traction is indeed less restrictive than skeletal traction, allowing for more mobility. It is applied using bandages or adhesive material to the skin, which can be removed or adjusted more easily than the pins or screws used in skeletal traction. This type of traction is typically used for short-term treatment before surgery or when the injury is less severe.

Choice B reason:

Discomfort levels can vary depending on the individual and the specific circumstances of the traction. However, skin traction is generally considered to be less painful than skeletal traction because it is less invasive and applies less force. Skeletal traction, which involves the insertion of pins or wires directly into the bone, is likely to cause more discomfort due to the invasive nature of the procedure.

Choice C reason:

Skeletal traction is more appropriate for reducing fractures, especially in cases where a greater force is needed to align the bones. It involves the surgical insertion of pins or wires directly into the bone, allowing for a stronger and more stable pull that is necessary for the realignment of complex fractures.

Choice D reason:

Skeletal traction carries a higher risk of infection compared to skin traction because it is more invasive. The insertion of pins or wires into the bone creates a potential entry point for bacteria, which can lead to infection at the site of insertion.

Choice A reason:
Asking about the identity of the assailant, while important for legal purposes, does not contribute to the immediate medical care of the client. The priority is to address potential health issues, such as exposure to HIV.

Choice B reason:
The timing of the assault is critical because it determines the eligibility for PEP. PEP should be initiated as soon as possible, ideally within 2 hours, but it can be effective up to 72 hours after exposure. Knowing the exact time of the assault helps healthcare providers act swiftly to mitigate the risk of HIV transmission.

Choice C reason:
While knowing where the assault occurred can provide context and may be relevant for legal proceedings, it does not influence the immediate medical treatment plan for potential HIV exposure.

Choice D reason:
Consent to involve law enforcement is a separate issue from medical treatment. While it's important to respect the client's wishes regarding reporting, it does not impact the decision-making process regarding HIV prophylaxis.