Which of the following would be the most appropriate play activity for a 3-year-old in a spica cast, considering both safety and development?

Choice A reason:

Releasing traction every hour to perform skin care: Releasing traction every hour is not recommended as it can disrupt the alignment and healing process of the fractured femur. Skin care is important, but it should be performed without compromising the traction setup.

Choice B Reason:

Releasing traction once every 8 hours to check circulation: While checking circulation is crucial, releasing traction every 8 hours is not necessary and can interfere with the therapeutic benefits of traction. Circulation can be monitored without releasing the traction.

Choice C Reason:

Maintaining continuous traction until 1 hour before the scheduled surgery: Continuous traction is essential to maintain the alignment of the fractured femur. However, there is no need to release traction 1 hour before surgery unless specifically instructed by the surgical team.

Choice D Reason:

Maintaining continuous traction and checking the position of traction: This is the most appropriate action. Continuous traction ensures proper alignment and healing of the fractured femur. Regularly checking the position of traction helps prevent complications and ensures the effectiveness of the treatment.

Choice A reason:

Basketball, while a popular sport, involves a significant amount of physical contact and the risk of falls and injuries1. For children with hemophilia, engaging in contact sports can increase the risk of bleeding episodes and joint damage. Therefore, basketball is not the most recommended sport for children with hemophilia.

Choice B reason:

Swimming is highly recommended for children with hemophilia because it is a low-impact sport that provides excellent cardiovascular exercise without putting undue stress on the joints. The buoyancy of the water supports the body, reducing the risk of injuries and bleeding episodes. Swimming also helps improve muscle strength and flexibility, which can be beneficial for overall health and well-being.

Choice C reason:

Soccer, like basketball, involves a lot of running, physical contact, and the potential for falls and injuries. These factors make soccer a less suitable sport for children with hemophilia, as it can increase the risk of bleeding and joint damage. Therefore, soccer is not the most recommended sport for children with hemophilia.

Choice D reason:

Skating, whether roller skating or ice skating, carries a risk of falls and injuries. While it can be a fun and enjoyable activity, the potential for accidents makes it less suitable for children with hemophilia. The risk of bleeding episodes and joint damage is higher with activities that involve a significant risk of falls.