How does skin traction compare to skeletal traction in nursing practice?

Skin traction is more invasive and requires surgical insertion of metal pins.

Skin traction involves the use of weights attached to the skin, while skeletal traction uses weights connected to metal pins inserted into the bone.

Skin traction is only used for chronic orthopedic conditions, while skeletal traction is specific to acute fractures.

Skin traction is used to replace the need for surgical interventions in the management of fractures.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

Skin traction and skeletal traction are both used to stabilize and immobilize fractured bones, but they differ in the method of application. Skin traction uses weights attached to adhesive straps on the skin near the fractured area, while skeletal traction involves weights connected to metal pins inserted directly into the bone.

a. Skin traction is less invasive than skeletal traction because it does not require surgical insertion of metal pins.

c. Skin traction is not only used for chronic orthopedic conditions; it is commonly used for acute fractures as well.

d. Skin traction is not used to replace surgical interventions; it is an adjunctive intervention used in conjunction with other treatments for fractures.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Weakness in the unaffected leg may indicate nerve compression or impairment, which requires further assessment and intervention to prevent neurovascular complications.

a. Symmetrical pedal pulses bilaterally indicate adequate circulation to both legs and are a positive finding.

b. Capillary refill time less than 2 seconds indicates good peripheral perfusion and is a normal finding.

d. Tingling sensation in the toes may be expected with skin traction, but it does not necessarily indicate a complication unless it is accompanied by other neurovascular changes.

A. Apply lotion to the skin under the traction regularly. B. Clean the skin under the traction with alcohol swabs daily. C. Use a barrier cream on the skin under the traction. D. Inspect the skin under the traction for redness and irritation daily.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

To promote skin integrity, the nurse should instruct the patient to inspect the skin under the traction daily for signs of redness, irritation, or breakdown. Early detection of skin issues can help prevent further complications.

a. Applying lotion to the skin under the traction is not recommended, as it can interfere with proper skin assessment and cause skin irritation.

b. Cleaning the skin under the traction with alcohol swabs daily can dry out the skin and increase the risk of skin breakdown.

c. Using a barrier cream on the skin under the traction is not necessary and may not be suitable for all patients. It can also interfere with skin assessment.

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How does skin traction compare to skeletal traction in nursing practice?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse is caring for a patient in skin traction and is monitoring the patient's neurovascular status. Which finding indicates a potential complication?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

The nurse is providing discharge teaching to a patient with skin traction. What instruction should the nurse include to promote skin integrity?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Which type of skin traction is specifically designed for pediatric patients with femur fractures?

Which of the following fractures would benefit from the use of skin traction?

The nurse is evaluating the skin condition of a patient in skeletal traction. Which finding requires immediate intervention?

The nurse is assessing a patient with skin traction. Which finding requires immediate intervention?

Which patient would benefit most from the use of skin traction?

The nurse is collaborating with the physical therapist to assist a patient in skin traction with range of motion exercises. Which action demonstrates effective nursing collaboration?

The nurse is caring for a patient in skin traction. What is a potential complication of skin traction if not properly secured?

The nurse is caring for a patient in skin traction. When communicating with the healthcare provider about the patient's condition, which approach demonstrates effective nursing communication?