Question

Buck extension traction is applied to the right leg of a client who sustained a right hip fracture. Which intervention should the nurse include in the plan of care?

a) Ensure proper body alignment
b) Apply cold compresses to the fracture site
c) Encourage active range of motion exercises
d) Administer pain medication as needed

Answer 1

The nurse should ensure proper body alignment for a client with a right hip fracture undergoing buck extension traction. This helps to maintain the correct position of the fractured bones and prevent complications.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should include ensuring proper body alignment in the plan of care for a client with a right hip fracture who is undergoing buck extension traction. Proper body alignment is important to minimize further injury and promote healing. It helps to maintain the correct position of the fractured bones and prevents complications such as pressure ulcers, muscle contractures, and nerve damage.

Cold compresses to the fracture site (option b) may help to reduce swelling and pain, but in the case of buck extension traction, the primary goal is to maintain proper alignment of the leg.

Option c, encouraging active range of motion exercises, may not be appropriate in this case as buck extension traction is typically used to immobilize the fractured leg. Moving the leg during traction can disrupt the alignment and delay healing.

Pain medication administration (option d) is an important intervention to manage the client's discomfort and promote rest, but it is not directly related to maintaining proper body alignment.