A nurse is assisting with the care of an adolescent client who is in skeletal traction for the treatment of a fractured femur. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Passive range-of-motion exercises should be performed to prevent complications like contractures, but they should be done as ordered by the provider, not automatically every 2 hours. B. Applying protective padding to the end of the pin sites helps prevent pressure injuries and irritation, which is a key part of maintaining skin integrity and preventing infection. C. There is no indication that fiber intake should be reduced. In fact, a high-fiber diet is encouraged to prevent constipation, which is a common complication for immobile patients. D. The traction weights should not be lifted off the floor, as this could interfere with the traction setup and the healing process. Traction should be maintained properly to align and stabilize the fracture.