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A nurse is caring for a client with Buck's traction and is monitoring the client for complications of the traction. Which assessment finding indicates a complication?

a. Weak pedal pulses.
b. Drainage at the pin sites.
c. Complaints of discomfort.
d. Warm toes with brisk capillary refill.

User Capy
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

When monitoring a patient with Buck's traction, weak pedal pulses can indicate a complication as it may suggest impaired circulation, which could lead to serious issues such as a DVT.

Step-by-step explanation:

Complications of Buck's Traction

When a nurse is caring for a client with Buck's traction, they are monitoring for potential complications that may arise from the use of traction. Among the assessment findings listed, weak pedal pulses (a) can indicate a complication, as this may suggest impaired circulation to the extremity in traction, which could lead to issues such as a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or peripheral vascular compromise. Drainage at the pin sites (b) could also signify infection, while complaints of discomfort (c) can be common and may not necessarily indicate a serious issue unless the discomfort is severe or exacerbated. Lastly, warm toes with brisk capillary refill (d) is an indication of good circulation, not a complication.

Therefore, weak pedal pulses (a) indicates a complication of Buck's traction.

User Rpearce
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