A nurse is caring for a client who has skeletal traction for the treatment of a femur fracture.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
A.
Position the weights on the traction so they are touching the head of the client’s bed
B.
Encourage isometric exercises every 8 hr
C.
Administer pain medication to the client before performing pin care
D.
Assist the client to shift position every 4 hr.
The correct answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is C. Administer pain medication to the client before performing pin care.
Explanation:
Skeletal traction is often used to stabilize fractures, particularly in the femur, by applying a steady pull to the affected limb. This method aims to maintain proper alignment, reduce muscle spasm, and promote healing. When caring for a client in skeletal traction, nurses must consider several critical aspects of care to ensure patient safety and comfort.
Administering pain medication before pin care (Option C) is essential. Pin sites can be painful due to the insertion of pins into the bone and the surrounding tissues. Performing pin care without adequate pain management may cause the client unnecessary discomfort and anxiety, potentially leading to a negative care experience. Administering pain medication beforehand allows the client to be more relaxed and comfortable during the procedure, facilitating easier and more effective care.
Option A, which suggests positioning the weights on the traction so they touch the head of the client’s bed, is incorrect. The weights must hang freely and not touch any surface, as this would alter the amount of traction and could compromise the alignment and stabilization of the fracture.
Option B, encouraging isometric exercises every 8 hours, is not a recommended frequency for patients in traction. Isometric exercises can be beneficial, but they should be done more frequently and tailored to the patient’s condition and tolerance.
Option D, assisting the client to shift position every 4 hours, may not be frequent enough depending on the client’s comfort and the specific protocols of the healthcare facility. Regular position changes are important to prevent pressure ulcers and ensure overall comfort.
In summary, the nurse’s primary role is to manage pain effectively, ensuring that care procedures are conducted safely and comfortably for the client. Administering pain medication prior to pin care addresses these concerns and promotes a better overall experience during treatment.