The nurse is caring for a patient with a fractured femur in skin traction. Which action by the nurse is appropriate?

Assessing the skin under the traction tape every 8 hours.

Tightening the traction ropes to increase the traction force.

Placing the traction weights on the bed rather than suspending them.

Removing the traction periodically to allow the skin to breathe.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Option A is appropriate because assessing the skin under the traction tape helps monitor for any signs of skin breakdown, irritation, or pressure ulcers. Regular skin assessments are essential to prevent complications related to skin traction.

b. Tightening the traction ropes to increase the traction force is incorrect. The traction force should be set by the healthcare provider, and altering it without proper authorization may lead to adverse effects or further injury.

c. Placing the traction weights on the bed instead of suspending them is incorrect. Traction weights should be suspended freely to provide the appropriate traction force and maintain proper alignment of the fractured bone.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Skin traction is most beneficial for patients with fractures who are awaiting definitive treatment, such as surgical fixation. It provides temporary stabilization and pain relief for the fractured bone until further treatment is initiated.

a. Skin traction is not typically used for chronic joint inflammation; it is specific to fractures.

b. Skin traction is not used to treat dislocated joints; other interventions are employed for joint reductions.

d. Skin traction is not indicated for muscle strains; it is primarily used for fractures.

A. Directly over the fractured bone. B. The unaffected leg. C. The bony prominence on the affected side. D. The area above the fractured hip.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Skin traction is typically applied above the fractured area to provide a pulling force in the opposite direction to reduce swelling and discomfort. The traction should not be placed directly over the fractured bone to avoid further injury.

a. Placing traction directly over the fractured bone may exacerbate the fracture and cause additional harm.

b. Applying traction to the unaffected leg is not appropriate, as it will not address the fractured hip.

c. Applying traction to the bony prominence on the affected side can cause pressure sores and skin breakdown.

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The nurse is caring for a patient with a fractured femur in skin traction. Which action by the nurse is appropriate?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Which patient would benefit most from the use of skin traction?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

The nurse is preparing to apply skin traction for a patient with a fractured hip. Which area is the most appropriate location to apply the traction?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

The nurse is evaluating the skin condition of a patient in skeletal traction. Which finding requires immediate intervention?

How does skin traction compare to skeletal traction in nursing practice?

The nurse is caring for a patient in skin traction. When communicating with the healthcare provider about the patient's condition, which approach demonstrates effective nursing communication?

The nurse is caring for a patient with a fractured femur who has been placed in skin traction. Which statement best describes the purpose of skin traction?

The nurse is providing discharge education to a patient with skin traction. Which instruction should the nurse include?

The nurse is evaluating the effectiveness of skin traction for a patient with a fractured femur. Which finding indicates successful traction?

Which statement accurately explains how skin traction is applied?

Which of the following fractures would benefit from the use of skin traction?