PN Adult Medical Surgical Practice Exam

What action should a nurse take if a client in Buck's traction reports increased pain?

1. Loosen the ropes

2. Reposition the client

3. Massage the area

4. Remove the weights

The correct answer is: Reposition the client

When a client in Buck's traction reports increased pain, repositioning the client is the most appropriate action to take. Proper positioning can help alleviate discomfort by redistributing pressure on the body and ensuring that the traction is applied correctly. The goal is to maintain alignment and stability while allowing for the client's comfort. Repositioning may relieve tension on the affected limb and can provide the client with a more comfortable posture, thus potentially reducing their pain levels. Additionally, it is important to consider that changes in position can help to relieve any encroaching pressure points or discomfort associated with the traction setup. Other options, such as loosening the ropes or removing the weights, may compromise the effective therapeutic effect of the traction and lead to further complications, such as improper alignment or instability in the fracture site. Massaging the area could further irritate or cause additional pain, especially if there are underlying injuries that need to be stable during treatment. In summary, repositioning the client enables the nurse to manage the client's pain while ensuring that the traction remains effective for the treatment of the underlying condition.