What is the purpose of traction?
Traction applies a sustained pulling force to help maintain alignment, limit movement, and reduce pain or muscle spasm.
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What is the purpose of traction?
Traction applies a sustained pulling force to help maintain alignment, limit movement, and reduce pain or muscle spasm.
How does skin traction transfer force?
Skin traction transfers force through the skin, often using a boot or straps.
Can traction replace definitive fracture treatment?
Traction may temporarily help maintain alignment while a fracture awaits definitive treatment; it does not replace that treatment.
Who determines a patient's traction setup and weight?
The prescribed setup and weight are specific to the patient. Do not change them independently.
How should traction weights hang?
The weights should hang freely so the prescribed force is not obstructed.
How should the patient’s body and affected limb relate to the traction pull?
Keep the patient's body and affected limb aligned with the prescribed pull.
What should you do if traction weights pull against the bed frame?
If safe, reposition the weights so they hang freely without changing the prescribed setup, and report equipment problems.
What is the priority response to worsening pain, swelling, and pain with passive toe movement?
Rapidly worsening pain, increasing swelling, and pain with passive toe movement may indicate compartment syndrome. Report immediately and obtain urgent clinical assessment.
Which findings belong in a distal neurovascular assessment?
Assess distal color, temperature, capillary refill, pulse, sensation, and movement; compare findings with the other limb and prior assessments.
What changes should be monitored at skeletal traction pin sites?
Inspect skeletal traction pin sites for changes such as increasing redness, swelling, drainage, or pain.
What care helps reduce complications of prolonged traction?
Provide prescribed skin care and repositioning, encourage permitted movement and breathing exercises, and monitor for immobility-related complications.
How does skeletal traction transfer force?
Skeletal traction transfers force to bone through attached pins or wires.
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