Which type of skin traction is often used for patients with lower leg fractures?

Russell's traction is used for patients with lower leg fractures to reduce muscle spasms and align the bones. It involves the application of skin traction to the lower leg.

a. Buck's traction is commonly used for patients with hip fractures, not lower leg fractures.

c. Bryant's traction is specifically designed for pediatric patients with femur fractures, not lower leg fractures in adult patients.

d. Dunlop's traction is a type of head and neck traction used for cervical spine injuries, not lower leg fractures.

Checking the skin under the traction tape daily for redness is essential to monitor for signs of skin breakdown. This allows the nurse to identify early signs of pressure and adjust the traction as needed to prevent skin complications.

a. Applying lotion to the skin under the traction tape is not recommended, as it can create a barrier and interfere with the traction's effectiveness. It may also contribute to skin breakdown.

c. Keeping the traction device tightly secured at all times can lead to excessive pressure on the skin and increase the risk of skin breakdown. The traction should be secured firmly but not excessively tight.

d. Massaging the skin under the traction tape is not advisable, as it can cause friction and further damage the skin, increasing the risk of skin breakdown.