High School

The nurse plans care for an 18-month-old child with Buck's extension traction. Which action is most important for the nurse to perform?

1) Monitor vital signs every hour
2) Administer pain medication as needed
3) Assess neurovascular status every 4 hours
4) Complete thorough skincare every 2 hours

Answer :

Final answer:

Assessing neurovascular status every 4 hours is crucial for a child in Buck's extension traction to detect early signs of complications like compartment syndrome or nerve damage, ensuring prompt intervention.

Explanation:

The question relates to the care of an 18-month-old child in Buck's extension traction. Among the available options, assessing neurovascular status every 4 hours is the most important action to perform. This priority stems from the critical need to monitor for any signs of impaired circulation, sensation, or motor function, which could indicate a serious complication, such as compartment syndrome or nerve damage. Close neurovascular monitoring enables early detection of these issues, allowing for prompt intervention to prevent long-term harm.

While monitoring vital signs, administering pain medication, and completing thorough skin care are crucial components of the care, they do not address the acute risk of neurovascular compromise directly associated with traction application. Therefore, ensuring the integrity of the child's neurovascular status is paramount for a nurse caring for a patient in Buck's extension traction.

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