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
If the skin traction is not properly secured, there is a risk of traction weight displacement, leading to improper alignment and ineffective traction. Proper securing of the traction is essential to maintain its therapeutic effect.
a. Fracture of the affected limb is not a direct complication of improperly secured skin traction. Fractures are typically treated with other methods, such as casting or surgical interventions.
b. Infection at the traction site may occur if proper hygiene and wound care practices are not followed. It is not directly related to the security of the traction.
d. Excessive traction pressure can occur if the traction is not properly applied or adjusted. However, the primary concern is traction weight displacement, which affects the effectiveness of the treatment.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Russell's traction is used for patients with lower leg fractures to reduce muscle spasms and align the bones. It involves the application of skin traction to the lower leg.
a. Buck's traction is commonly used for patients with hip fractures, not lower leg fractures.
c. Bryant's traction is specifically designed for pediatric patients with femur fractures, not lower leg fractures in adult patients.
d. Dunlop's traction is a type of head and neck traction used for cervical spine injuries, not lower leg fractures.
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