What is an important nursing consideration when caring for a patient with skin traction?
Elevating the affected limb above heart level to reduce edema.
Avoiding weight adjustments in the traction without the healthcare provider's order.
Keeping the adhesive straps or wraps clean and dry to prevent infection.
Encouraging active range of motion exercises for the affected limb.
The Correct Answer is B
Adjusting the weight used in skin traction without a healthcare provider's order can lead to complications or improper alignment of the fractured bone. Weight adjustments should only be made based on the healthcare provider's instructions.
a. Elevating the affected limb can help reduce edema but may not be specific to skin traction care.
c. Keeping the adhesive straps or wraps clean and dry is essential to prevent skin breakdown and infection, but it is not the primary nursing consideration related to traction.
d. Encouraging active range of motion exercises is not recommended while the patient is in skin traction, as it may disrupt the traction's stabilizing effect on the fractured bone. Passive range of motion exercises may be performed as appropriate, with the healthcare provider's approval.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Visible signs of skin breakdown under the traction tape require immediate intervention. It indicates that the skin is compromised, and the patient is at risk of developing pressure ulcers or skin breakdown. Prompt action is necessary to prevent further damage and ensure patient safety.
a. Slight redness at the site of the traction tape may be expected, and the nurse should monitor for any signs of worsening or discomfort. It does not require immediate intervention unless it progresses.
b. Mild discomfort during movement of the affected limb is common with skin traction, and the nurse should assess for any signs of worsening or intolerable pain.
c. Pain rated as 6 out of 10 on the pain scale should be addressed, but it does not require immediate intervention unless it is associated with other concerning signs or symptoms
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
If the skin traction is not properly secured, there is a risk of traction weight displacement, leading to improper alignment and ineffective traction. Proper securing of the traction is essential to maintain its therapeutic effect.
a. Fracture of the affected limb is not a direct complication of improperly secured skin traction. Fractures are typically treated with other methods, such as casting or surgical interventions.
b. Infection at the traction site may occur if proper hygiene and wound care practices are not followed. It is not directly related to the security of the traction.
d. Excessive traction pressure can occur if the traction is not properly applied or adjusted. However, the primary concern is traction weight displacement, which affects the effectiveness of the treatment.
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