Question

A client with a fractured hip has been placed in traction. Which statement is true regarding balanced skeletal traction? Balanced skeletal traction: A. Utilizes a pin through bones B. Requires that both legs be secured C. Utilizes Kirschner wires D. Is used primarily to heal the fractured hips

Short answer

A. Utilizes a pin through bones Explanation: Balanced skeletal traction is a technique used to treat fractures, dislocations, and other orthopedic conditions. It involves inserting pins or screws in the bones of the affected area and attaching weights to apply a controlled pulling force, aligning the bones, and providing stability during the healing process.

Step-by-step solution

Understand balanced skeletal traction

Balanced skeletal traction is a technique used to treat fractures, dislocations, and other orthopedic conditions by applying a steady and controlled pulling force on the affected area. This helps to align the bones and provides stability while the injury heals. It is essential to know its features and uses in order to determine the correct answer.

Analyze each statement

Now, let's analyze each option and determine which one is true regarding balanced skeletal traction: A. Utilizes a pin through bones: This is true. In balanced skeletal traction, pins or screws are inserted into the bones, and weights are attached to these pins/screws to apply constant traction to the fractured area. B. Requires that both legs be secured: This is not true. Although securing both legs may sometimes be necessary for certain cases, it is not a specific requirement for balanced skeletal traction. C. Utilizes Kirschner wires: This statement is not true. Kirschner wires (also known as K-wires) are thin metal wires typically used in other types of traction or fixation methods, but not specifically in balanced skeletal traction. D. Is used primarily to heal the fractured hips: This statement is not entirely true. While balanced skeletal traction could be used for fractured hips, it is not primarily used for this purpose. It is also used for other fractures, dislocations, and orthopedic conditions.

Identify the correct statement

Since we have analyzed each statement, we can conclude that the correct answer is: A. Utilizes a pin through bones This statement is true regarding balanced skeletal traction since it is a method that uses pins or screws to apply a steady pulling force on the affected area, thus aligning the bones and providing stability while the injury heals.