Which type of skin traction is often used for patients with lower leg fractures?

The correct action to prevent skin breakdown in a patient with skin traction is to ensure that the traction weight is hanging freely and not resting on the bed. This prevents pressure on the skin and reduces the risk of skin breakdown.

a. Applying lotion to the skin under the traction can create a barrier that may interfere with proper skin assessment and could cause skin irritation. It is not recommended to apply lotion under the traction.

c. Loosening the traction bandages every 2 hours can compromise the effectiveness of the traction and may not be necessary if the skin is not showing signs of compromise.

d. Removing the traction periodically to assess the skin can disrupt the treatment plan and may not be necessary unless there are signs of skin compromise or other complications.

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.