Final answer:
A nurse should monitor for signs of compartment syndrome in a child in 90-90 skeletal traction by assessing the distal limbs for changes in sensation, movement, and the presence of the five Ps: pain, pulse, pallor, paresthesia, and paralysis. Early identification and intervention are crucial to prevent permanent damage.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse should assess for signs of compartment syndrome in the areas distal to the 90-90 skeletal traction, primarily in the limbs that are being immobilized and treated. Signs of compartment syndrome include severe pain that does not resolve with medication, pain on passive stretch of the muscles in the compartment, pallor, absence of distal pulses, paresthesia, and paralysis. Evaluation of the extremity includes checking for pain, pulse, pallor, paresthesia, and paralysis (often referred to as the five Ps).
Since compartment syndrome is a result of increased pressure within a muscle compartment that can compromise circulation and nerve function, it is critical to monitor the distal extremity for changes in color, temperature, sensation, and the ability to move. This involves assessing the sensory and muscular function by checking for sensitivity to touch and the ability to perform active movements.
In the case of a child in 90-90 skeletal traction, checking these signs regularly can help identify compartment syndrome early, allowing for timely intervention to prevent permanent damage. The areas typically focused on would include the compartments of the thigh or lower leg for lower extremity traction and the compartments of the arm for upper extremity traction. A quick response is required because the consequences of untreated compartment syndrome could lead to severe tissue damage..