A nurse is caring for a client who has skeletal traction for a fracture of the lower extremity. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Remove weights when pulling the client up in bed: Weights should never be removed from skeletal traction unless ordered by a healthcare provider. Removing weights disrupts the traction's purpose and alignment, potentially causing complications. B. Check the rope for fraying every 8 hr: Checking the rope for fraying every 8 hours is an appropriate and safe practice in skeletal traction. Ensuring that the rope is intact and functioning properly is essential for maintaining the stability and effectiveness of the traction. C. Cleanse the pin sites with hydrogen peroxide: Hydrogen peroxide can be too harsh for cleaning pin sites, as it may damage tissue and delay healing. A sterile saline solution is usually preferred for cleaning pin sites unless otherwise prescribed. D. Inspect the pin sites for infection every 24 hr: Pin site inspections should be done at least once per shift, not just every 24 hours, to promptly detect any signs of infection, as early intervention is key.