Nokea
A client is having traction applied to a fractured left lower extremity prior to surgery. What outcome(s) does the nurse expect from the application of the traction for the client? Select all that apply.
- A. Surgery will not be required.
- B. Muscle spasms will be relieved.
- C. The bones of the left leg will be aligned.
- D. Immobilization of the left leg will be maintained.
- E. Less pain medication will be required.
Correct Answer: B,C,D
Rationale: Traction is used to relieve muscle spasm, align bones, and maintain immobilization when used properly. It will not replace surgery to correct the fracture. The client will still require pain medication prior to surgical correction.
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The nurse is caring for a client in skeletal traction. When performing pin care, which action by the nurse is most important?
- A. Clean the site, working toward the pin.
- B. Use an applicator only once.
- C. Gently remove crusts around pin sites.
- D. Apply an antimicrobial ointment.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: When performing pin care, the nurse should use at least one applicator per pin and not use an applicator more than once, cleaning the site from the pin outward. Crusts around pin sites should be gently removed, but that is less important than not re-using applicators. Ointment is avoided unless it is specifically ordered.
A group of students is reviewing information about cast composition in preparation for a discussion on the advantages and disadvantages of each. The students demonstrate understanding of the topic when they cite what as an advantage of a plaster cast?
- A. Better molding to the client
- B. Quicker drying
- C. Longer lasting
- D. More breathable
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Plaster casts require a longer time for drying but mold better to the client and are initially used until the swelling subsides. Fiberglass casts dry more quickly, are lighter in weight, longer lasting, and breathable.
A client is harbouring a fractured tibia is to be placed in skin traction. Which of the following is a type of skin traction that the nurse might expect to be used?
- A. Buck's traction
- B. Skeletal traction
- C. External fixation
- D. Cast application
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Buck's traction is a type of skin traction commonly used for temporary immobilization and pain relief in fractures, such as a fractured tibia, until definitive treatment like surgery can be performed. Skeletal traction involves pins inserted into the bone, external fixation involves a frame outside the body, and cast application is not a form of traction.
During the assessment of a client scheduled for orthopedic surgery, the nurse discovers that the client was previously treated for the disorder. In such a case, what additional data need to be collected?
- A. Occurrence of complications or problems during treatment
- B. Measures taken to minimize postoperative wound infection
- C. Perception of the client about the previous treatment
- D. Details of the medical team that handled the previous treatment
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: If the same disorder has been treated earlier, the nurse needs to determine and document any complications or problems that occurred during treatment. The nurse can determine whether the client understands the treatment or not based on the measures taken by the client to minimize postoperative wound infection. However, this factor can be assessed later because the nurse needs to explain the new treatment to the client. Although the client's perceptions of the previous treatment may be helpful, this data would not be as important. In addition, the nurse does not need to get details about the medical team that handled the previous treatment, unless specifically asked to do so.
The clinic nurse is caring for a client with an injured body part that does not require rigid immobilization. What method of immobilization would the nurse expect the health care provider to use on a short-term basis?
- A. Cast
- B. Brace
- C. Splint
- D. Skin traction
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: A splint immobilizes and supports an injured body part in a functional position and is used when the condition does not require rigid immobilization, causes a large degree of swelling, or requires special skin treatment. Casts and traction provide rigid immobilization. A brace provides support, controls movement, and prevents additional injury for more long-term use.