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?
Directly over the fractured bone.
The unaffected leg.
The bony prominence on the affected side.
The area above the fractured hip.
The Correct Answer is D
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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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Purplish discoloration below the traction site may indicate impaired circulation, and it requires immediate intervention to prevent further complications like pressure ulcers or nerve damage.
a. Mild redness around the traction tape is common and may be expected, but it does not require immediate intervention unless it worsens or is accompanied by other signs of infection.
b. Slight discomfort at the traction site is expected as a result of the applied tension, and it can be managed with appropriate pain management techniques.
c. Skin irritation from the adhesive strips can be addressed by repositioning the strips or using appropriate skin protection measures.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Adjusting the weight used in skin traction without a healthcare provider's order can lead to complications or improper alignment of the fractured bone. Weight adjustments should only be made based on the healthcare provider's instructions.
a. Elevating the affected limb can help reduce edema but may not be specific to skin traction care.
c. Keeping the adhesive straps or wraps clean and dry is essential to prevent skin breakdown and infection, but it is not the primary nursing consideration related to traction.
d. Encouraging active range of motion exercises is not recommended while the patient is in skin traction, as it may disrupt the traction's stabilizing effect on the fractured bone. Passive range of motion exercises may be performed as appropriate, with the healthcare provider's approval.
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