Following a bicycle accident, a 12-year-old client sustained a complete fracture of the left femur. He was placed in 90-90 skeletal traction with a pin in the distal end of the femur to achieve realignment and immobilization of the left femur. When providing nursing care, it is important for the nurse to remember that:
- The nurse may lift only the weights that are applying traction in order to reposition him in bed
- The client will need special skin care at the pin site according to hospital policy or the physician's preference
- The traction pull should result in an immediate increase in comfort and reduce the need for pain medication
- The client should be discouraged from participating in self-care activities to avoid the risk of disrupting the traction
Answer(s): B
Explanation:
(A) Skeletal traction, including the weights that are applying the traction, is never released by the nurse. (B) It is necessary to keep the pin site clean and free from infection. (C) When first placed in traction, the client may experience increased discomfort as a result of the traction pull fatiguing the muscle. (D) When the child in traction is allowed to participate in his care, it gives him a measure of control and helps him to cope with the situation.
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