A nurse teaches a client with a fractured tibia about external ...

[mynx]

A nurse teaches a client with a fractured tibia about external fixation. Which advantages of external fixation for the immobilization of fractures should the nurse share with the client? (Select all that apply.)
 
  a. It leads to minimal blood loss.
  b. It allows for early ambulation.
  c. It decreases the risk of infection.
  d. It increases blood supply to tissues.
  e. It promotes healing.

Question 2

A nurse plans care for a client who is prescribed skeletal traction. Which intervention should the nurse include in this plan of care to decrease the client's risk for infection?
 
  a. Wash the traction lines and sockets once a day.
  b. Release traction tension for 30 minutes twice a day.
  c. Do not place the traction weights on the floor.
  d. Schedule for pin care to be provided every shift.

[snackralk]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A, B, E
External fixation is a system in which pins or wires are inserted through the skin and bone and then connected to a ridged external frame. With external fixation, blood loss is less than with internal fixation, but the risk for infection is much higher. The device allows early ambulation and exercise, maintains alignment, stabilizes the fracture site, and promotes healing. The device does not increase blood supply to the tissues. The nurse should assess for distal circulation, movement, and sensation, which can be disturbed by fracture injuries and treatments.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
To decrease the risk for infection in a client with skeletal traction of external fixation, the nurse should provide routine pin care and assess manifestations of infection at the pin sites every shift. The traction lines and sockets are external and do not come in contact with the client's skin; these do not need to be washed. Although traction weights should not be removed or released for any period of time without a prescription, or placed on the floor, this does not decrease the risk for infection.