Which statement best describes skin traction in nursing practice?
Skin traction involves the application of a cast to immobilize a fractured bone.
Skin traction is a method of reducing a dislocated joint by pulling on the skin around it.
Skin traction is a non-invasive method of applying a pulling force to the skin to align and stabilize a fractured bone.
Skin traction is a surgical procedure used to repair damaged ligaments in the joint.
The Correct Answer is C
Skin traction is a technique commonly used in orthopedic nursing to stabilize and align fractured bones without the need for invasive surgery. It involves attaching adhesive straps or wraps to the skin around the fractured area and applying a pulling force to maintain proper alignment.
a. Skin traction does not involve the application of a cast. It is a temporary and non-invasive method used to stabilize a fracture before further treatment is provided.
b. Skin traction is not used to reduce dislocated joints. It is specifically used for fractures.
d. Skin traction is not a surgical procedure but rather a non-surgical intervention used in conjunction with other treatments.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
To ensure proper alignment and prevent shearing forces on the skin, the nurse should use a lift sheet to slide the patient to the desired position. This reduces friction and minimizes the risk of skin breakdown.
a. Raising the head of the bed to a 30-degree angle does not address proper alignment for repositioning with skin traction.
b. Having the patient assist in turning to the side can place strain on the affected limb and is not recommended for patients with skin traction.
d. Applying a trochanter roll under the affected hip is not necessary for repositioning with skin traction.
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.
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