The nurse is providing discharge instructions to a patient with skin traction. Which statement by the patient indicates a need for further teaching?
"I will clean the skin under the traction tape with mild soap and water daily."
"I will report any signs of skin redness or irritation to the nurse."
"I can remove the traction device if it becomes uncomfortable."
"I will use the trapeze bar to reposition myself in bed."
The Correct Answer is C
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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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Skin traction is a temporary and short-term intervention used to stabilize a fractured bone and provide pain relief before more definitive treatments, such as casting or surgery, are implemented.
a. Skin traction is not a long-term treatment and is usually used as an interim measure while more definitive treatments are planned.
b. Skin traction is not intended to replace surgical interventions but rather to provide stabilization until surgery is performed, if necessary.
c. Skin traction can be used before surgery but is not typically applied only during surgery for immediate fracture stabilization.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
While mild discomfort may seem minor, it could indicate skin breakdown, pressure injury, or neurovascular compromise. The nurse must immediately assess circulation, sensation, and motion (CSM) in the affected limb to rule out complications such as compartment syndrome, nerve compression, or improper traction alignment.
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