College

A nurse is caring for a child who has a fractured tibia and is in Buck's traction. What actions should the nurse take?

a) Apply ice pack
b) Elevate leg
c) Administer pain medication
d) Remove traction

Answer :

Final answer:

A nurse should elevate the leg, apply an ice pack, and administer pain medication to care for a child in Buck's traction for a fractured tibia. Removing the traction is not recommended without medical direction.

Explanation:

When caring for a child who has a fractured tibia and is in Buck's traction, the nurse should take the following actions:

  • Elevate Leg: This helps reduce swelling and improves circulation to the injured area.
  • Apply Ice Pack: Ice can help minimize pain and swelling.
  • Administer Pain Medication: As prescribed by the physician to manage pain.

It is important not to Remove Traction unless directed by a medical professional, as it aids in the appropriate alignment and stabilization of the fractured bone.

In order to increase the force along the tibia using the same weight in a traction setup, one could reconfigure the pulleys and ropes to alter the direction and distribution of the force applied, ensuring that it is more effectively aligned with the tibia.