A nurse is discussing skeletal and skin traction with a newly licensed nurse. Which of the following statements should the nurse identify as an indication that the newly licensed nurse understands these therapies?
"Skeletal traction is better than skin traction for reducing a fracture."
"Clients in skin traction have more mobility than those in skeletal traction."
"Skeletal traction has less risk for infection than skin traction."
"Clients in skin traction have more discomfort than those in skeletal traction."
The Correct Answer is A
a. Skeletal traction is often better than skin traction for reducing and maintaining alignment of a fracture because it involves the insertion of pins, wires, or screws directly into the bone, allowing for greater force and stability.
b. Clients in skin traction typically have less mobility compared to those in skeletal traction. Skin traction is usually used for short-term purposes or less severe fractures and involves attaching weights to the skin using adhesive materials or bandages, which can limit movement to some extent.
c. Skeletal traction involves inserting hardware into the bone, which creates an entry point for potential infection. Therefore, it has a higher risk for infection compared to skin traction, which does not involve invasive procedures.
d. While both types of traction can cause discomfort, skeletal traction is typically more invasive and can be associated with more discomfort and pain due to the pins or wires inserted into the bone. Skin traction, while uncomfortable due to the adhesive and pressure on the skin, generally causes less discomfort than skeletal traction.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The highest priority nursing intervention for a client who is unconscious following a stroke is to suction saliva from the client's mouth. This can help prevent aspiration and maintain a patent airway, which is essential for the client's survival.
Performing passive range of motion on each extremity, recording the client's intake and output, and monitoring the client's electrolyte levels are also important nursing interventions for this client. However, these interventions are not as high of a priority as maintaining a patent airway.

Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The knee is a hinge type of joint. When describing range-of-motion exercises, the nurse should explain that the knee is a hinge joint. A hinge joint is a type of synovial joint that mainly allows for flexion and extension (and a small degree of medial and lateral rotation)¹. The knee joint is formed by articulations between the patella, femur, and tibia.
a. The knee is not a pivot joint.
c. The knee is not a ball and socket joint.
d. The knee is not a gliding joint.
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