The nurse is preparing to apply skin traction to a patient's lower leg. What is the primary purpose of applying skin traction in this situation?

To immobilize the fractured bone completely.

To realign the fractured bone into its original position.

To provide a pulling force to reduce the fracture.

To promote blood circulation in the affected limb.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

The primary purpose of applying skin traction is to provide a pulling force on the fractured bone, which helps to reduce and realign the bone fragments. It allows for proper bone healing and minimizes pain and muscle spasms.

a. Skin traction does not completely immobilize the fractured bone; it provides some mobility while stabilizing the fracture.

b. Realignment of the fractured bone into its original position is the goal of closed reduction or surgical intervention, not skin traction.

d. While skin traction may promote some blood circulation in the affected limb, its primary purpose is to reduce the fracture and stabilize the bone, not to improve circulation.

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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.

A. "I will clean the skin under the traction tape with mild soap and water daily." B. "I will report any signs of skin redness or irritation to the nurse." C. "I can remove the traction device if it becomes uncomfortable." D. "I will use the trapeze bar to reposition myself in bed."

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

The patient should not remove the traction device independently. Removing the traction can compromise the effectiveness of fracture reduction and delay healing. Only healthcare professionals should adjust or remove the traction as needed.

a. Cleaning the skin under the traction tape with mild soap and water daily helps to maintain skin integrity and reduce the risk of infection.

b. Reporting any signs of skin redness or irritation to the nurse is essential to monitor for potential skin breakdown and prevent complications.

d. Using the trapeze bar to reposition in bed is an appropriate method for the patient to move independently without compromising the traction's stability.

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The nurse is preparing to apply skin traction to a patient's lower leg. What is the primary purpose of applying skin traction in this situation?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

What is an important nursing consideration when caring for a patient with skin traction?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

The nurse is providing discharge instructions to a patient with skin traction. Which statement by the patient indicates a need for further teaching?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

The nurse is caring for a patient in skin traction. When communicating with the healthcare provider about the patient's condition, which approach demonstrates effective nursing communication?

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The nurse is caring for a patient with skin traction. What action should the nurse take to prevent skin breakdown?

The nurse is caring for a patient with a fractured femur who has been placed in skin traction. Which action should the nurse take to prevent skin breakdown?