Question

When caring for a 5-year-old in traction, the nurse is conducting a skin examination for signs of pressure ulcers. Particular attention should be paid to which of the following areas?

A) Sacral area
B) Hip area
C) Occiput
D) Upper arm

Answer 1

For a 5-year-old in traction, a nurse should closely monitor the occiput, sacral area, and hip area for signs of pressure ulcers due to the increased risk of these areas developing bedsores from prolonged immobility.

Step-by-step explanation:

When caring for a 5-year-old in traction and conducting a skin examination for signs of pressure ulcers, particular attention should be paid to the occiput, sacral area, and hip area, as these are bony prominences that are most susceptible to pressure ulcers, especially in immobile patients. For children in traction, it is crucial to assess these areas regularly due to the extended periods of immobility that traction necessitates.

Bedsores, also known as decubitus ulcers, can lead to serious complications if not identified and treated early. They are caused by reduced blood flow to the area due to constant, long-term, unrelieved pressure, which can ultimately result in tissue necrosis. In the care setting, protocols generally include repositioning patients every few hours to alleviate pressure and prevent the development of bedsores.