MULTIPLE CHOICE
1. A nurse assesses a client with a fracture who is being treated with skeletal traction. Which assessment should alert the nurse to
... [Show More] urgently contact the health
provider?
a. Blood pressure increases to 130/86 mm Hg
b. Traction weights are resting on the floor
c. Oozing of clear fluid is noted at the pin site
d. Capillary refill islessthan 3 seconds
ANS: B
The immediate action of the nurse should be to reapply the weights to give traction to the fracture. The health care provider must be notified that the weights were
lying on the floor, and the client should be realigned in bed. The clients blood pressure is slightly elevated; this could be related to pain and muscle spasms resulting
from lack of pressure to reduce the fracture. Oozing of clear fluid is normal, as isthe capillary refill time.
Weights should not be removed without a prescription. They should not be lifted manually or allowed to rest on the floor. Weights should be freely hanging at all
times. Inspect the skin Q8H for S/S of irritation or inflammation. Remove the belt or boot that is used forskin traction Q8H to inspect under the device.
2. A nurse coordinates care for a client with a wet plaster cast. Which statementshould the nurse include when delegating care for this client to an unlicensed assistive
personnel (UAP)?
a. Assess distal pulsesfor potential compartmentsyndrome.
b. Turn the client every 3 to 4 hoursto promote cast drying.
c. Use a cloth-covered pillow to elevate the clientsleg.
d. Handle the castwith yourfingertips to prevent indentations.
ANS: C
When delegating care to a UAP for a client with a wet plaster cast, the UAP should be directed to ensure that the extremity is elevated on a cloth pillow instead of a
plastic pillow to promote drying. The clientshould be assessed forimpaired arterial circulation, a complication of compartmentsyndrome; however, the nurse should
not delegate assessments to a UAP. The client should be turned every 1 to 2 hours to allow air to circulate and dry all parts of the cast. Providers should handle the
cast with the palms of the hands to prevent indentations [Show Less]