The nurse is teaching a prenatal class on the functions of the various structures involved with pregnancy.

The nurse determines the class is successful when the class correctly chooses which function of amniotic fluid.

Choice A reason:
Placing traction weights so they touch the head of the bed disrupts the effectiveness of the traction system. Skeletal traction relies on a continuous pulling force to maintain proper alignment of the fractured femur. If the weights are resting on any surface, the force is interrupted, which can lead to complications such as malunion or delayed healing. The weights must hang freely at all times to ensure therapeutic benefit.

Choice B reason:
Isometric exercises are beneficial for maintaining muscle tone and promoting circulation during immobilization. However, while this is a supportive intervention, it is not the most critical or immediate nursing action in the context of skeletal traction. Encouraging exercises every 8 hours is appropriate, but it does not directly address the most urgent or discomfort-related aspect of care.

Choice C reason:
Pin care is a routine but potentially painful procedure associated with skeletal traction. Administering pain medication beforehand is a priority nursing action because it ensures client comfort, reduces anxiety, and promotes cooperation during the procedure. This intervention reflects both compassionate care and adherence to best practices in pain management and infection prevention.

Choice D reason:
Repositioning a client in skeletal traction must be done with extreme caution to avoid disrupting the traction setup. Assisting the client to shift position every 4 hours may inadvertently alter the alignment or tension of the traction apparatus. While pressure injury prevention is important, repositioning must be coordinated carefully and is not the most appropriate standalone action in this context.

A postpartum fever is defined as a temperature greater than 100.4 degrees F (38.0 degrees C) on at least two occasions.
These fevers cannot be ignored as they can represent serious infections. The first task is to identify the source.
Choice A is not correct because continuing to monitor for another hour may delay necessary treatment.
Choice B is not correct because administering an antipyretic may only treat the symptom and not address the underlying cause of the fever.
Choice C is not correct because assisting the client in ambulation does not address the underlying cause of the fever.