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?
Skin traction is used to immobilize the fractured bone and prevent further injury.
Skin traction is applied directly to the fractured bone to realign the bone fragments.
Skin traction is used to provide compression to reduce swelling and edema.
Skin traction is used to promote mobility and early ambulation.
The Correct Answer is C
Skin traction is a type of traction that involves applying force to the skin to reduce swelling and edema around the fractured bone. It helps to alleviate pain and promote proper alignment of the bone fragments.
a. Skin traction does not immobilize the fractured bone; rather, it provides continuous but controlled tension to reduce swelling and discomfort.
b. Skin traction is not applied directly to the fractured bone. Instead, it involves applying adhesive strips or bandages to the skin, followed by connecting weights to provide the desired tension.
d. While skin traction may promote some mobility, its primary purpose is to reduce swelling and discomfort rather than facilitating early ambulation.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
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.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct action to prevent skin breakdown in a patient with skin traction is to ensure that the traction weight is hanging freely and not resting on the bed. This prevents pressure on the skin and reduces the risk of skin breakdown.
a. Applying lotion to the skin under the traction can create a barrier that may interfere with proper skin assessment and could cause skin irritation. It is not recommended to apply lotion under the traction.
c. Loosening the traction bandages every 2 hours can compromise the effectiveness of the traction and may not be necessary if the skin is not showing signs of compromise.
d. Removing the traction periodically to assess the skin can disrupt the treatment plan and may not be necessary unless there are signs of skin compromise or other complications.
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