Final answer:
A nurse should ensure the weights in Buck's traction are hanging freely to maintain proper tension and effective healing. The traction should not be removed periodically, fluid intake should not be limited, and massaging the affected leg is not advisable.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a nurse is caring for a school-age child who is in Buck's traction following a leg fracture, it is important to take specific actions to ensure proper healing and patient comfort. One key action is to ensure the weights are hanging freely. This is crucial because the weights provide a constant force necessary to maintain the desired amount of traction, which aids in the proper alignment and stabilization of the broken bone.
Weights that are not hanging freely might either diminish the required tension or create an inappropriate force angle, which can interfere with healing. The nurse should also regularly check the positioning of the child, offer pain relief as appropriate, and monitor the skin for any signs of pressure sores or irritation.
It's important not to remove the traction, as it needs to stay in place to be effective, and the nurse should not limit fluid intake as hydration is important for overall health. Finally, massaging the affected leg is not advised, as it could disturb the fracture site and the alignment achieved by the traction.