A nurse is caring for a child who has Legg-Calve-Perthes disease and is in Buck extension traction.
Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
A.
Reposition the child every 2 hr.
B.
Remove the traction boot during baths.
C.
Reduce fluid intake.
D.
Apply antibiotic ointment to pin sites daily.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is A. Reposition the child every 2 hr.
Explanation
Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease (LCPD) is a condition where the blood supply to the femoral head is temporarily disrupted, leading to avascular necrosis of the hip joint. Treatment often involves various forms of orthopedic management to restore and maintain proper hip joint alignment and function, including the use of traction.
Buck Extension Traction is a type of skin traction used in the management of LCPD. It involves the application of a pulling force to the leg through a boot attached to weights and pulleys, which helps to keep the hip joint in the correct position and reduces pain by immobilizing the area.
Repositioning the child every 2 hours (Option A) is crucial for several reasons:
- Prevent Pressure Ulcers: Prolonged immobility can lead to the development of pressure ulcers or bedsores. Regular repositioning helps to alleviate pressure on specific areas of the body, thus preventing skin breakdown.
- Promote Circulation: Repositioning helps to improve blood circulation, which is essential for overall tissue health and can aid in the healing process.
- Ensure Proper Alignment: Regular repositioning can also ensure that the traction remains effective and the alignment of the hip joint is maintained.
Removing the traction boot during baths (Option B) is not recommended as it may compromise the effectiveness of the traction and the alignment of the hip joint. The boot should be kept on as directed by the healthcare provider to maintain proper traction.
Reducing fluid intake (Option C) is not a standard recommendation for managing LCPD or Buck extension traction. Adequate hydration is important for overall health and to support proper bodily functions, including the healing process.
Applying antibiotic ointment to pin sites daily (Option D) is typically more relevant for pin care in skeletal traction (where pins are inserted into the bone), not for skin traction like Buck extension traction. For skin traction, maintaining clean and dry skin is important, but the specific care instructions should follow the protocol given by the healthcare provider.
In summary, regular repositioning is a key action to ensure effective treatment and prevent complications while the child is in Buck extension traction for Legg-Calve-Perthes disease.