Which assessment finding should the nurse expect to observe when evaluating the effectiveness of Buck's traction for a patient who has an intracapsular fracture of the right femur?
A. Visible signs of bone healing on an X-ray.
Increased swelling and redness in the right hip.
Improved range of motion in the right hip.
Decrease in hip pain.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Visible signs of bone healing on an X-ray would not be expected after Buck's traction. Healing takes longer to become visible on an X-ray.
Choice B rationale
Increased swelling and redness would indicate complications such as infection or thrombophlebitis, not the effectiveness of traction.
Choice C rationale
Improved range of motion would not typically be expected while Buck's traction is in place. The primary purpose is to reduce pain and immobilize the fracture.
Choice D rationale
Decrease in hip pain is a direct indicator of the effectiveness of Buck's traction in alleviating symptoms and preventing further injury to the fractured femur.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Blood glucose levels are important but are not the immediate priority for assessing the cause of severe vomiting and diarrhea with lightheadedness. Electrolyte imbalances are more likely to be the cause.
Choice B rationale
Serum potassium levels should be prioritized as vomiting and diarrhea can lead to significant potassium loss, which can result in dangerous cardiac and neuromuscular symptoms. Assessing potassium levels is crucial in this scenario.
Choice C rationale
Lipid profile is not relevant in the acute assessment of severe vomiting, diarrhea, and lightheadedness. This test is more useful for long-term cardiovascular risk assessment.
Choice D rationale
Thyroid function tests are not immediately relevant to the acute symptoms of vomiting and diarrhea with lightheadedness. Electrolyte imbalances are a more immediate concern.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Checking the blood pressure is not the priority action in this case. The symptoms described may suggest compartment syndrome, which is a medical emergency and requires immediate intervention.
Choice B rationale
The correct action is to notify the health care provider immediately as this may indicate compartment syndrome, a serious complication that can occur after fractures and can lead to permanent damage if not treated promptly.
Choice C rationale
Assessing the incision for redness is not appropriate in this scenario as the symptoms suggest a more severe underlying issue such as compartment syndrome, which requires urgent attention.
Choice D rationale
Repositioning the leg may provide temporary relief but does not address the potential underlying issue of compartment syndrome. The priority is to notify the health care provider.
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