A client with a fracture of the right femur has had skeletal traction applied. Which intervention should the nurse include in the client's nursing care plan?
Assess the pin sites for signs of infection.
Administer pain medication at designated intervals around the clock.
Assess the pulses proximal to the fracture site.
Remove traction every shift and provide skin care.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Assessing the pin sites for signs of infection is essential in clients with skeletal traction to detect any early signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, warmth, or purulent drainage. Prompt identification and management of pin site infections can prevent complications.
B. Administering pain medication at designated intervals around the clock helps to ensure adequate pain control and comfort for the client. However, this intervention alone does not specifically address the care needs related to skeletal traction.
C. Assessing the pulses proximal to the fracture site is important for monitoring circulation and detecting any signs of impaired perfusion. However, this assessment is not directly related to the care of skeletal traction itself.
D. Removing traction every shift is not indicated unless there is a specific reason to do so as ordered by the healthcare provider. Continuous traction is often necessary for proper alignment and stabilization of the fracture. Additionally, providing skin care is important to prevent skin breakdown around the traction device, but removing traction every shift is not part of routine care.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. A right foot that is pale with sluggish capillary refill suggests compromised circulation, possibly due to compartment syndrome, and requires immediate intervention to prevent tissue damage.
B. Circumferential edema of the right foot may be expected after a fracture and casting but does not indicate an immediate complication requiring intervention.
C. Reports of throbbing right leg pain are common after a fracture and casting and may be managed with appropriate pain medication but do not necessarily indicate an immediate complication.
D. An increased temperature to the lower extremity may be indicative of inflammation but does not necessarily require immediate intervention unless accompanied by other signs of infection or complications.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Starting two large bore IV catheters and reviewing inclusion criteria for IV fibrinolytic therapy is essential in the immediate management of a client with sudden, severe headache and neurological deficits suggestive of stroke. Time- sensitive interventions, such as IV fibrinolytic therapy, may be indicated if the client meets criteria for treatment.
B. Administering aspirin to prevent further clot formation and platelet clumping is contraindicated in the acute management of a suspected stroke until hemorrhagic stroke is ruled out.
C. Verifying prescribed laboratory tests include prothrombin time and platelet count is important for assessing coagulation status, but it is not the immediate intervention needed in this situation.
D. Maintaining elevated positioning of the dependent joints on the affected side is not the priority intervention in the acute management of a suspected stroke.
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