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

Skin traction is a temporary and short-term intervention used to stabilize a fractured bone and provide pain relief before more definitive treatments, such as casting or surgery, are implemented.

a. Skin traction is not a long-term treatment and is usually used as an interim measure while more definitive treatments are planned.

b. Skin traction is not intended to replace surgical interventions but rather to provide stabilization until surgery is performed, if necessary.

c. Skin traction can be used before surgery but is not typically applied only during surgery for immediate fracture stabilization.

Option D is the correct instruction because the patient should be vigilant in monitoring for any signs of skin redness, irritation, or discomfort under the traction tape. Promptly reporting these symptoms to the healthcare provider allows for early intervention and prevention of skin complications.

a. "Avoid any weight-bearing activities for the duration of traction" is incorrect because weight-bearing activities are typically restricted only in certain types of traction, such as skeletal traction. The nurse should specify any activity restrictions based on the type of traction provided to the patient.

b. "You may remove the traction device at night for more comfort" is incorrect. Skin traction is a continuous intervention, and removing the device can compromise its effectiveness in providing traction and immobilizing the affected limb.

c. "Clean the skin under the traction tape with alcohol wipes daily" is incorrect. Alcohol wipes can cause skin dryness and irritation, which may exacerbate skin issues under the traction tape. The nurse should recommend gentle cleaning and moisturizing as needed.