Exhibits

The nurse has reviewed information regarding the adolescent's medication for home use with the guardian and adolescent.
Select the 2 statements that demonstrate the guardian's understanding of their child's medication.

A. Buck extension: Buck extension traction is commonly used for lower extremity fractures, particularly those involving the femur or hip in adolescents. It is a type of skin traction that helps to relieve muscle spasms and align the bone during the healing process.
B. Cervical skin: Cervical skin traction, such as a head halter, is used to provide traction to the cervical spine (neck) for conditions like muscle spasms or minor cervical fractures. It is not used for lower extremity fractures, as it applies force to the head and neck.
C. Dunlop: Dunlop traction is a type of skin traction specifically used for supracondylar fractures of the humerus in children. It involves the arm being positioned at a right angle to the body with traction applied in two directions. It is not indicated for lower extremity fractures..
D. Bryant: Bryant's traction is used primarily for young children with hip fractures or congenital hip issues. It involves elevating the buttocks off the bed and is not typically prescribed for adolescents with lower extremity fractures.

Rationale for Correct Choices:

• Consult the child life specialist for guidance: A child life specialist can help the parent navigate the difficult conversation with their adolescent, providing strategies for addressing sensitive topics like metastasis and death.
• Reinforce teaching to the parent regarding the adolescent's potential emotional responses: Educating the parent on common emotional responses helps them prepare for and better support their adolescent through this challenging time.

Rationale for Incorrect Choices:

• Encourage the parent to hide their emotions from their adolescent: Hiding emotions can create barriers to trust and communication, which can make the adolescent feel isolated or confused.
• Instruct the parent to withhold the test results from their adolescent: Withholding important information can prevent the adolescent from understanding their condition and making informed decisions about their care.
• Discourage the parent from discussing the possibility of death with their adolescent: Avoiding discussions about death can prevent the adolescent from processing their emotions and understanding the reality of their situation.
• Collaborate with the RN to initiate a referral for admission to hospice care: Hospice care should only be considered after emotional support and clear communication have been established, not prematurely without addressing emotional needs first.