The nurse is caring for a patient in skin traction. Which intervention is essential to prevent pressure ulcers?
Applying petroleum jelly to the skin under the traction tape.
Keeping the traction device loose to allow for movement.
Repositioning the patient every 4 hours.
Applying direct pressure to the skin over bony prominences.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Applying petroleum jelly to the skin under the traction tape. Petroleum jelly should not be applied, as it can soften the skin and increase the risk of maceration or skin breakdown under the traction tape.
B. Keeping the traction device loose to allow for movement. The traction must remain properly secured to maintain alignment and prevent further injury. Loosening it defeats the purpose of traction and can lead to complications.
C. Repositioning the patient every 4 hours. Repositioning at least every 2- 4 hours helps relieve pressure, promote circulation, and prevent skin breakdown. Turning every 4 hours on a viscoelastic foam mattress/surface results in fewer pressure ulcers than turning every 2 hours on a standard mattress.
D. Applying direct pressure to the skin over bony prominences. Applying direct pressure to bony prominences increases the risk of skin breakdown and worsens pressure injuries. Instead, pressure should be relieved by using cushions or proper repositioning techniques.
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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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