Today our topic of discussion is General,Nursing Care of the Patient with Traction .
General,Nursing Care of the Patient with Traction
General, Nursing Care of the Patient with Traction
- Shave the leg or arm before applying the traction.
- Observe for record and report:
-Circulation: Skin color joint mobility, numbness, coldness or swelling of the extremity. Avoid pressure in the popliteal space .
-Skin condition: Check areas over heel, dorsum of the foot and sacral area for pressure sores
-Body alignment: Observe for body alignment and position of the extremity whether traction being maintained.
-Counter traction: .Whether or not balanced traction is achieved.
-Position of bandages: Check for the position of bandages, pins, cards supporting pads and slings.
-Supporting pads and slings: Are they correctly positioned .
-Prevention of deformity: Whether measures are taken to prevent foot drop or hip flexion in the sitting position.
-Complications: Observe for hypostatic pneumonia.
- Avoid using a pillow under the extremity in traction unless specifically ordered by the physician
- Inspect pulleys and ropes daily
- Report to physician if the foot piece is touching the floor .
- Follow the physician’s order for the exact amount of weight to be used
- Be sure that weight are hanging freely Maintain the patient’s body alignment
- Keep the patient clean and comfortable .
- Assist the patient in feeding and elimination.
- Treat pressure areas daily to prevent pressure sores.
- Encourage deep breathing and coughing to prevent hypostatic pneumonia.
- Provide diversional activities to relieve boredom.
- Physiotherapy: Give exercises to the joints and muscles to prevent joint stiffness and muscle wasting.
- Use sand bags and foot board to support the foot.
- Encourage the patient to exercise the feet periodically to prevent foot drop.
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