The nurse is providing care for a patient in skin traction. What intervention should the nurse implement to prevent contractures?

Engaging in regular communication to discuss the patient's progress demonstrates effective nursing collaboration. This allows the nurse and physical therapist to coordinate care, make adjustments to the treatment plan, and ensure the best possible outcomes for the patient.

a. Taking over the physical therapist's treatment plan without discussion is not collaborative and can lead to misunderstandings and conflicts between the nurse and the physical therapist.

b. Providing the physical therapist with outdated patient information can compromise the patient's care and is not conducive to effective collaboration.

c. Scheduling therapy sessions at a convenient time for the nurse disregards the needs and progress of the patient, which is not a collaborative approach.

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.