Question

Multiple-choice question: Buck's traction is a type of: A. Skin traction B. Skeletal traction C. Manual traction D. Plaster traction

Short answer

A. Skin traction

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Question

This is a direct question asking for the type of traction that Buck's traction falls under.

Recall Knowledge about Traction Types

Think about the different types of traction you have learned about. Skin traction? Skeletal traction? Manual traction? or Plaster traction? Recall what each type means and how they are different.

Associate Buck's Traction

Remember that Buck's traction is used to decrease muscle spasms and immobilize a lower limb by applying force through use of weights. It falls under the category of skin traction since the force is applied to the skin and not through the bone.

Key concepts

Skin Traction

Skin traction is a technique often used to relieve muscle spasms and stabilize a limb before surgery. This non-invasive method involves applying a pulling force directly to the skin through adhesive materials or straps.
The device typically consists of weights and pulleys that gently apply tension across the limb.

This type of traction is utilized in various scenarios:

• Muscle relaxation: Helps alleviate discomfort by stretching the muscles.
• Limb alignment: Holds the limb in the correct position temporarily.
• Pre-operative care: Prepares the limb for surgery by reducing pain and swelling.

Unlike skeletal traction, skin traction is not used for heavy pulling, making it suitable for short-term treatment.
Moreover, it is often preferred due to its simplicity and the reduced potential for complications. However, care must be taken to monitor for skin irritation or damage.

Skeletal Traction

Skeletal traction involves a more direct, invasive application of force to the bone itself. This method provides a more substantial pull than skin traction.
A surgical procedure is performed to insert a pin or wire through the bone at an appropriate point. Weights are then attached to these pins to create tension along the limb.

Skeletal traction is particularly advantageous in:

• Fracture alignment: Especially useful in maintaining the correct position of a fractured bone during healing.
• Long-term immobilization: Required when extended traction is needed.
• Stabilizing complex fractures: Ensures more precise bone alignment than non-invasive options.

Because of its invasive nature, skeletal traction requires careful monitoring for signs of infection and other complications.
It's commonly used for treating fractures of the femur, tibia, and spine, where precise alignment is crucial for proper healing.

Nursing Multiple-Choice Questions

Nursing multiple-choice questions (MCQs) are an essential tool in nursing education, helping students assess their understanding of complex medical concepts.
These questions are typically formulated to test different dimensions of knowledge and clinical decision-making.

When approaching nursing MCQs:

• Understand the question: Read carefully to identify the key concept or problem being tested.
• Recall relevant knowledge: Bring into focus the core principles or facts related to the question.
• Eliminate wrong answers: One effective strategy is to rule out clearly incorrect options first.

Nursing MCQs often include scenarios requiring application of theoretical knowledge to practical situations, enhancing critical thinking skills.
Practicing these questions can significantly aid in preparing for exams like the NCLEX or professional certifications.
Furthermore, these questions often reflect real-world clinical scenarios, thereby preparing nurses for the practical challenges they may encounter in their careers.