A nurse is assessing a client who has skeletal traction for a femoral fracture. The nurse notes that the weights are resting on the floor. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Remove one of the weights.
Tie knots in the ropes near the pulleys to shorten them.
Pull the client up in bed.
Increase the elevation of the affected extremity.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Remove one of the weights:
Removing a weight from skeletal traction can compromise the effectiveness of the traction, potentially leading to improper alignment and healing of the fracture. The weights are essential for maintaining the proper alignment and stability of the fractured bone, so altering them without proper medical guidance is not advisable.
B. Tie knots in the ropes near the pulleys to shorten them:
Tying knots in the ropes to shorten them is not a safe or appropriate method for adjusting traction. It can lead to uneven force distribution, poor alignment, and potential injury. Traction adjustments should be made by qualified personnel using proper equipment and methods.
C. Pull the client up in bed:
Pulling the client up in bed helps to ensure that the weights are properly suspended and not resting on the floor. This action helps maintain the effectiveness of the skeletal traction by ensuring that the appropriate amount of force is applied to the fracture. It also prevents potential complications associated with improperly positioned weights.
D. Increase the elevation of the affected extremity:
Increasing the elevation of the affected extremity might be indicated to reduce swelling or improve comfort but does not address the issue of weights resting on the floor. Proper positioning of the weights is crucial for effective traction and must be corrected to ensure optimal treatment outcomes.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) "If you don't take this medication, you will feel worse":
While this statement might be intended to convey the importance of the medication, it can come across as a threat or ultimatum. It does not engage with the client's concerns or offer a rationale for the medication's necessity.
B) "Most clients feel better after taking the antibiotic":
This response focuses on the general outcome rather than addressing the specific client's concerns or explaining why the medication is necessary for their condition. It may not provide the client with enough information to understand the importance of the medication.
C) "I will tell your provider that you do not want to take this medication":
This response shifts the responsibility to the provider without addressing the client's concerns directly. It is important to engage with the client and provide education about the medication before escalating the issue to the provider.
D) "Your provider wouldn't prescribe this medication if it weren't necessary":
This response acknowledges the client's concerns while providing a rationale for why the medication is important. It reinforces that the medication is prescribed based on medical necessity, aligning with the provider's judgment and emphasizing the importance of following the treatment plan.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Pallor in the affected extremity:
Pallor in the affected extremity is a critical finding that indicates potential compromised blood flow to the area, which can be a sign of graft failure, arterial occlusion, or inadequate perfusion. This requires immediate evaluation by the healthcare provider to prevent serious complications such as limb ischemia or loss.
B) Urine output 150 ml over 4 hr:
While low urine output can be concerning, a urine output of 150 ml over 4 hours may not be immediately alarming unless there are other symptoms of acute kidney injury or dehydration. This would need to be monitored, but it is less urgent compared to signs of compromised blood flow.
C) Temperature of 37.9° C (100.2°F):
A temperature of 37.9°C (100.2°F) is mildly elevated and may indicate a low-grade fever, which can occur postoperatively due to various reasons, including inflammatory responses. It is not as immediately critical as signs of impaired perfusion.
D) Bruising around the incisional site:
Bruising around the incisional site is a common postoperative finding and typically not immediately concerning unless it is associated with significant bleeding or signs of hematoma formation. It should be monitored but does not generally require immediate reporting unless accompanied by other alarming symptoms.
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