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Which statement best describes skin traction in nursing practice?

A.

Skin traction involves the application of a cast to immobilize a fractured bone.

B.

Skin traction is a method of reducing a dislocated joint by pulling on the skin around it.

C.

Skin traction is a non-invasive method of applying a pulling force to the skin to align and stabilize a fractured bone.

D.

Skin traction is a surgical procedure used to repair damaged ligaments in the joint.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

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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Related Questions

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

The patient stating that the pain is worse with the traction off requires further intervention. Skin traction should relieve pain and discomfort; an increase in pain when the traction is off may indicate inadequate traction or an underlying issue.

a. The patient rating pain as a 3 on a scale of 0 to 10 suggests mild pain and may be expected with some level of discomfort related to the fracture and traction.

b. The patient's pain being well-controlled with prescribed analgesics is a positive finding and indicates that the current pain management plan is effective.

c. The patient reporting occasional sharp pain during movement may be expected with skin traction, but the nurse should assess for any signs of worsening or intolerable pain.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Skin traction is most beneficial for patients with fractures who are awaiting definitive treatment, such as surgical fixation. It provides temporary stabilization and pain relief for the fractured bone until further treatment is initiated.

a. Skin traction is not typically used for chronic joint inflammation; it is specific to fractures.

b. Skin traction is not used to treat dislocated joints; other interventions are employed for joint reductions.

d. Skin traction is not indicated for muscle strains; it is primarily used for fractures.

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