The nurse is caring for a patient in skin traction and is monitoring the patient's neurovascular status. Which finding indicates a potential complication?
Symmetrical pedal pulses bilaterally.
Capillary refill time less than 2 seconds.
Weakness in the unaffected leg.
Tingling sensation in the toes.
The Correct Answer is C
Weakness in the unaffected leg may indicate nerve compression or impairment, which requires further assessment and intervention to prevent neurovascular complications.
a. Symmetrical pedal pulses bilaterally indicate adequate circulation to both legs and are a positive finding.
b. Capillary refill time less than 2 seconds indicates good peripheral perfusion and is a normal finding.
d. Tingling sensation in the toes may be expected with skin traction, but it does not necessarily indicate a complication unless it is accompanied by other neurovascular changes.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The primary purpose of applying skin traction is to provide a pulling force on the fractured bone, which helps to reduce and realign the bone fragments. It allows for proper bone healing and minimizes pain and muscle spasms.
a. Skin traction does not completely immobilize the fractured bone; it provides some mobility while stabilizing the fracture.
b. Realignment of the fractured bone into its original position is the goal of closed reduction or surgical intervention, not skin traction.
d. While skin traction may promote some blood circulation in the affected limb, its primary purpose is to reduce the fracture and stabilize the bone, not to improve circulation.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Buck's traction is often used for patients with fractures of the lower back and lower extremities. It helps stabilize the area and reduce pain before further treatment.
b. Russell's traction is used for lower leg fractures, not fractures of the lower back and lower extremities.
c. Bryant's traction is specifically designed for pediatric femur fractures, not fractures in the lower back or lower extremities.
d. Dunlop's traction is a type of head and neck traction, not used for fractures of the lower back or lower extremities.
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