A client returns to the surgical unit from the PACU in skeletal traction. The nurses should take action to correct. Which of the following problems with the traction setup?
The weights rest against the foot of the bed.
The ropes are in the center of the wheel grooves.
The weights are equal on each side.
The ropes atach securely to the pin
The Correct Answer is A
If a client returns to the surgical unit from the PACU in skeletal traction and the weights rest against the foot of the bed, the nurse should take action to correct this problem with the traction setup. The weights should be hanging freely and not touching any part of the bed or floor. This ensures that the traction is providing the appropriate amount of force to the affected limb.
The other options listed are not problems with the traction setup. The ropes should be in the center of the wheel grooves, the weights should be equal on each side, and the ropes should attach securely to the pin.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The nurse should instruct the client to elevate the affected ankle to the level of the heart. Elevation helps to reduce swelling and pain by promoting venous return and decreasing blood flow to the injured area. This is an important part of the RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) method for treating sprains and strains.
a. The elastic compression dressing should not be applied so tight that it causes numbness in the toes and ankle.
b. The client should avoid placing weight on the affected leg when walking until advised by a healthcare provider.
d. Heat should not be applied during the first 24 hours after a sprain as it can increase swelling and inflammation.

Correct Answer is A
Explanation
a.Skeletal traction is often better than skin traction for reducing and maintaining alignment of a fracture because it involves the insertion of pins, wires, or screws directly into the bone, allowing for greater force and stability.
b.Clients in skin traction typically have less mobility compared to those in skeletal traction. Skin traction is usually used for short-term purposes or less severe fractures and involves attaching weights to the skin using adhesive materials or bandages, which can limit movement to some extent.
c.Skeletal traction involves inserting hardware into the bone, which creates an entry point for potential infection. Therefore, it has a higher risk for infection compared to skin traction, which does not involve invasive procedures.
d.While both types of traction can cause discomfort, skeletal traction is typically more invasive and can be associated with more discomfort and pain due to the pins or wires inserted into the bone. Skin traction, while uncomfortable due to the adhesive and pressure on the skin, generally causes less discomfort than skeletal traction.
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