A student nurse asks the faculty why peer relationships become more important during adolescence. Which of the following is the nurse's best response?

In the given scenario, the 6-year-old patient in skeletal traction is experiencing
pain, edema, and fever. These symptoms raise concerns about the possibility of an infection
at the site of traction. In such cases, the nurse should assess for warmth at the site of pain.
Increased warmth can indicate inflammation, which may be associated with infection. This
assessment finding would require further investigation and intervention, such as notifying the
healthcare provider and obtaining appropriate cultures or imaging studies.
Neurologic status in (Option A) is incorrect because assessing neurologic status, is important
but not the priority in this scenario. Neurologic status assessment is typically performed to
evaluate any neurovascular compromise resulting from the traction, but the presence of pain,
edema, and fever suggests a potential infection that requires immediate attention.
Range of motion of all extremities in (Option B) is incorrect because assessing the range of
motion of all extremities, is not directly relevant to the given symptoms and should not take
priority over assessing for warmth at the site of pain.
Blood pressure in (Option D) is incorrect because assessing blood pressure, is not directly
related to the symptoms of pain, edema, and fever in the context of skeletal traction. While
blood pressure is an essential vital sign, it does not provide specific information about the
potential infection at the site of pain in this situation.

Upper extremity fractures in children commonly occur as a result of falls. Children are more prone to falls due to their developing motor skills, balance, and coordination. They may fall from playground equipment, bicycles, or simply while running or playing.

While sports injuries (Option A) can also lead to upper extremity fractures, falls are generally the most common cause in children.

Physical abuse (Option B) is an unfortunate possibility in some cases, but it is important to approach the assessment without assuming abuse as the cause without appropriate evidence or disclosure.

Upper extremity fractures resulting from automobile crashes (Option D) are less common in children compared to falls or sports injuries, although they can occur in severe accidents.

It is always important for the nurse to assess the child's history, obtain a detailed account of the injury, and consider any additional signs or indications that may suggest non-accidental trauma if appropriate.