How does skin traction compare to skeletal traction in nursing practice?
A.
Skin traction is more invasive and requires surgical insertion of metal pins.
B.
Skin traction involves the use of weights attached to the skin, while skeletal traction uses weights connected to metal pins inserted into the bone.
C.
Skin traction is only used for chronic orthopedic conditions, while skeletal traction is specific to acute fractures.
D.
Skin traction is used to replace the need for surgical interventions in the management of fractures.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is B. Skin traction involves the use of weights attached to the skin, while skeletal traction uses weights connected to metal pins inserted into the bone.
Explanation:
Traction is a therapeutic technique used to align and stabilize fractured bones and manage musculoskeletal conditions. It involves applying a pulling force to the affected limb to maintain proper alignment and relieve muscle spasm. There are two primary types of traction used in nursing practice: skin traction and skeletal traction.
Skin Traction: Skin traction involves the application of a pulling force to the skin using adhesive materials, such as adhesive strips or a traction boot. Weights are attached to these materials, which apply a steady, gentle pulling force to the limb. Skin traction is generally used for short-term management and is often employed in cases where a mild to moderate pull is required to align fractures or manage conditions such as muscle spasms or deformities. It is less invasive than skeletal traction because it does not require surgical intervention. Skin traction is usually applied for conditions like femoral fractures or preoperative alignment of the limb.
Skeletal Traction: In contrast, skeletal traction involves the surgical insertion of metal pins or wires directly into the bone. Weights are then attached to these pins or wires, which apply a more substantial and precise pulling force. This type of traction is used for more severe fractures or deformities, where a higher degree of force is necessary to achieve and maintain proper alignment. Skeletal traction is typically used for longer periods and in more complex cases where skin traction would not provide adequate stabilization. It is more invasive due to the need for surgical insertion and carries a higher risk of complications, such as infection at the pin sites.
In summary, skin traction and skeletal traction differ primarily in their methods of application and invasiveness. Skin traction uses external devices attached to the skin and is less invasive, while skeletal traction involves internal metal pins and is more invasive but allows for greater control and stabilization of the fracture.