The nurse cares for a teenage boy in Buck's traction. It is most important for the nurse to take which of the following actions?

1. Check the pin sites for bleeding or infection.
2. Apply topical or antibiotic ointment as ordered.
3. Assess that the elastic bandages are not too loose or too tight.
4. Remove the bandages daily to lubricate the skin.

The nurse must prioritize checking the pin sites for bleeding or infection in a teenaged boy in Buck's traction to prevent complications and ensure timely treatment. The correct option is 1. Check the pin sites for bleeding or infection.

Explanation:

It is most important for the nurse to check the pin sites for bleeding or infection. When caring for a teenaged boy in Buck's traction, monitoring for signs of infection such as increased redness, swelling, and pain is vital because they indicate a potential risk of a more serious complication. Effective management and early detection of infection can prevent the development of aggressive infections, such as the bacterial infection purulent drainage suggests, or more severe conditions like necrotizing fasciitis, as described in the provided clinical focus cases. Checking pin sites helps ensure that treatment can be initiated promptly if there are any signs of an infection.