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

Requesting physical therapy to assist with range of motion exercises demonstrates effective nursing collaboration. Physical therapists are experts in movement and can provide valuable input in promoting joint mobility for patients in traction.

a. Administering pain medication as prescribed is a standard nursing responsibility and does not involve collaboration with other healthcare providers.

b. Initiating skin traction without consulting the healthcare provider is not appropriate. Traction requires a healthcare provider's order, and nurses should not initiate any treatment without proper authorization.

c. Documenting the patient's neurovascular assessment in the chart is a part of the nurse's routine responsibilities and does not involve collaboration with other healthcare providers.

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.