Final answer:
Short-term traction used less often for stabilizing a fractured leg is skin traction.
Step-by-step explanation:
Short-term traction is often used to stabilize a fractured leg before more definitive treatment can be performed. Among the options provided, skin traction is used less often for this purpose.
Skin traction involves applying force to the skin to help stabilize the fractured leg. However, it is not as durable or secure as other forms of traction such as skeletal traction. Skin traction is typically used for shorter durations and is more commonly employed in the initial stages of treatment.
In contrast, skeletal traction involves the use of a pin or wire inserted directly into the bone above or below the fracture. This provides a more stable fixation and is often used for longer periods of time. Continuous traction involves maintaining a constant force, while intermittent traction applies force intermittently.
Therefore, the correct answer is a) Skin traction, which is used less often, on a short-term basis, to stabilize a fractured leg.