The nurse is providing discharge education to a patient with skin traction. Which instruction should the nurse include?
"Avoid any weight-bearing activities for the duration of traction."
"You may remove the traction device at night for more comfort."
"Clean the skin under the traction tape with alcohol wipes daily."
"Report any signs of skin redness or irritation to your healthcare provider."
The Correct Answer is D
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.
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Related Questions
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.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Skin traction can be used for certain types of fractures, including hairline fractures, to provide temporary stabilization and pain relief.
b. Compound fractures involve broken bones that pierce the skin, which is a contraindication for skin traction.
c. Stress fractures are overuse injuries and may not require skin traction for management.
d. Greenstick fractures are incomplete fractures common in children, and their management may not necessitate skin traction.
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