Final answer:
The purpose of skin or Bucks traction in adult patients with hip fractures is to temporarily overcome muscle spasms, alleviate pain, maintain limb position, and minimize the risk of complications. It is not used for permanent immobilization, immediate fracture reduction, or surgical preparation.
Step-by-step explanation:
c) To overcome muscle spasms temporarily The purpose of skin or Bucks traction in adult patients with hip fractures while waiting for definitive treatment is to overcome muscle spasms temporarily. This method of traction doesn’t reduce the fracture immediately but serves as a palliative measure to alleviate pain and prevent further damage. By applying a steady pulling force to the limb with the use of weights and pulleys, skin traction assists in aligning the broken pieces of the femur and reduces muscle spasms, which are common following a hip fracture. This can improve patient comfort and maintain limb position until surgery can be performed. Unlike skin traction, Bucks traction focuses more on the intended alignment and relief of spasms without the application to the skin.
The use of traction also helps in minimizing complications that may arise due to the fracture, such as the potential release of fat globules from a fractured diaphysis of the femur into the bloodstream, which could lead to respiratory distress or even death.The purpose of skin or Bucks traction in adult patients with hip fractures while waiting for more definitive treatment is to overcome muscle spasms temporarily. Skin or Bucks traction helps to relax the muscles surrounding the fractured hip, reducing muscle spasms and providing pain relief. This temporary immobilization allows for the proper alignment of the broken bone and prepares the patient for surgery if needed.