Exhibits

A nurse is collecting data from a 6-month-old infant during a well-child visit. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider? (Click on the "Exhibit" button for additional information about the client. There are three tabs that contain separate categories of data.)

A. Show the child's parent how to release tension on the bars: The tension on the halo vest is adjusted by the healthcare provider, not by the parent. The nurse should not instruct the parent to release tension, as improper adjustments can lead to complications.

B. Remove the vest for the child to sleep at night: The halo vest should remain in place at all times, including during sleep, to maintain proper cervical traction and stabilization. Removing it may interfere with the healing process and cause further injury.

C. Check the child's pupillary response: Monitoring the pupillary response is important in a child with cervical traction to assess for any neurological changes. It helps identify signs of increased intracranial pressure or other neurological complications.

D. Apply a cervical collar if the child reports neck pain: The halo vest itself is designed to stabilize the neck, and the application of a cervical collar without provider guidance could interfere with the proper use of the traction system.

A. Buck extension: Buck extension traction is commonly used for lower extremity fractures, particularly those involving the femur or hip in adolescents. It is a type of skin traction that helps to relieve muscle spasms and align the bone during the healing process.
B. Cervical skin: Cervical skin traction, such as a head halter, is used to provide traction to the cervical spine (neck) for conditions like muscle spasms or minor cervical fractures. It is not used for lower extremity fractures, as it applies force to the head and neck.
C. Dunlop: Dunlop traction is a type of skin traction specifically used for supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children. It involves the arm being positioned at a right angle to the body with traction applied in two directions. It is not indicated for lower extremity fractures..
D. Bryant: Bryant's traction is used primarily for young children with hip fractures or congenital hip issues. It involves elevating the buttocks off the bed and is not typically prescribed for adolescents with lower extremity fractures.