A patient has just begun been receiving skeletal traction and the nurse is aware that muscles in the patients affected limb are spastic. How does this change in muscle tone affect the patients traction prescription?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The traction weights applied initially must overcome the shortening spasms of the affected muscles. As the muscles relax, the traction weight is reduced to prevent fracture dislocation and to promote healing. Weights never alternate between heavy and light.

A Patient Has Just Begun Been Receiving Skeletal Traction and the Nurse