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 B
Explanation
A. Assessing the client's cognition may be appropriate if there are concerns about cognitive function, but in this scenario, the client's response indicates a coping mechanism for freezing episodes rather than cognitive impairment.
B. Confirming that the client's technique of pretending to step over a crack is an effective strategy acknowledges the client's self-initiated coping mechanism for freezing episodes, which can help promote independence in ambulation.
C. Assisting the client to a carpeted area may help reduce the risk of falls but does not directly address the freezing episode or the client's coping strategy.
D. Reorienting the client to the present location and circumstances is unnecessary as the client's response indicates a conscious coping strategy rather than confusion or disorientation.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Protecting the skin of the radiation portal site from sunlight exposure is crucial to prevent further damage to the irradiated area, as the skin becomes more sensitive during radiation therapy.
B. Washing the skin inside the radiation portal site should be done gently with mild soap and water, as directed by the healthcare provider, to maintain cleanliness and prevent infection. However, excessive rubbing or scrubbing should be avoided to minimize irritation.
C. The ink marks of the portal are used as reference points for accurate delivery of radiation and should not be removed until instructed by the healthcare provider or radiation therapist.
D. Moisturizing the radiation portal site can help alleviate dryness and discomfort associated with radiation therapy, but it should be done sparingly and with products recommended by the healthcare provider to avoid potential interactions or interference with the treatment.
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