The nurse is evaluating the patient's neurovascular status in skin traction. Which finding indicates a potential complication?
Capillary refill time of less than 2 seconds.
Weak pedal pulses in the affected leg.
Symmetrical pedal pulses bilaterally.
Tingling sensation in the toes.
The Correct Answer is B
Weak pedal pulses in the affected leg indicate a potential vascular compromise and are concerning in a patient with skin traction. It may indicate reduced blood flow, and immediate intervention is required to ensure proper circulation to the extremity.
a. Capillary refill time of less than 2 seconds is a normal finding and indicates adequate peripheral circulation. It is not indicative of a complication.
c. Symmetrical pedal pulses bilaterally are a positive finding and suggest good vascular status in both legs. It is not a potential complication.
d. Tingling sensation in the toes may be a normal sensation and does not necessarily indicate a complication unless it is accompanied by other neurovascular changes.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Skin traction is typically applied above the fractured area to provide a pulling force in the opposite direction to reduce swelling and discomfort. The traction should not be placed directly over the fractured bone to avoid further injury.
a. Placing traction directly over the fractured bone may exacerbate the fracture and cause additional harm.
b. Applying traction to the unaffected leg is not appropriate, as it will not address the fractured hip.
c. Applying traction to the bony prominence on the affected side can cause pressure sores and skin breakdown.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Skin traction is a technique commonly used in orthopedic nursing to stabilize and align fractured bones without the need for invasive surgery. It involves attaching adhesive straps or wraps to the skin around the fractured area and applying a pulling force to maintain proper alignment.
a. Skin traction does not involve the application of a cast. It is a temporary and non-invasive method used to stabilize a fracture before further treatment is provided.
b. Skin traction is not used to reduce dislocated joints. It is specifically used for fractures.
d. Skin traction is not a surgical procedure but rather a non-surgical intervention used in conjunction with other treatments.
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