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How to Apply a Skin Traction: Difference between revisions

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创建页面，内容为“Skin traction is a technique used to align and immobilize a fractured bone or joint by exerting a gentle pulling force on the skin. It is often used in combination with other treatment options, such as casting or surgery. Here are the general steps to apply skin traction: 1. Position the patient: Position the patient comfortably in a supine position, with the affected limb exposed and supported by a pillow or rolled-up blanket. The limb should be relaxed, wit…”
 
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Skin traction is a technique used to align and immobilize a fractured bone or joint by exerting a gentle pulling force on the skin. It is often used in combination with other treatment options, such as casting or surgery.
= How to Apply a Skin Traction =


Here are the general steps to apply skin traction:
Here is a comprehensive explanation on how to apply skin traction:


1. Position the patient: Position the patient comfortably in a supine position, with the affected limb exposed and supported by a pillow or rolled-up blanket. The limb should be relaxed, with the muscles of the limb in a neutral position.
== What is Skin Traction? ==


2. Clean the skin: Clean the skin over the area where the traction will be applied. Use an antiseptic solution and allow the skin to dry.
Skin traction is a non-invasive method of applying pulling force to a limb or body part using adhesive or non-adhesive materials applied to the skin. It is commonly used for temporary immobilization and alignment of fractures, particularly in the lower extremities1<ref name="ref4">4</ref>.


3. Apply adhesive strips: Apply adhesive strips to the skin, making sure they are secure but not too tight. The adhesive strips should be placed perpendicular to the direction of the traction force.
== Purpose of Skin Traction ==


4. Apply the traction: Attach the traction device to the adhesive strips. The device may consist of a pulley system and a weight or a pneumatic device. Apply the traction force gradually, until the desired level of tension is achieved.
The main goals of applying skin traction are:


5. Monitor the patient: Monitor the patient for any signs of discomfort, skin irritation, or neurovascular compromise. Check the traction device regularly to ensure that it is working properly and that the traction force is maintained.
- To control pain from muscle spasms
- To reduce and maintain alignment of fractures
- To prevent and correct deformities
- To provide temporary stabilization before definitive treatment[4]


6. Remove the traction: Remove the traction device periodically to allow the skin to rest and to perform skin care. The frequency of traction removal will depend on the patient's condition and the type of traction device used.
== Types of Skin Traction ==


It's important to note that the specific steps for applying skin traction may vary depending on the patient's condition and the type of traction device used. Always follow the instructions provided by the healthcare provider and ensure that the traction is applied correctly and safely.
There are two main types of skin traction:
 
1. Adhesive skin traction - Uses adhesive tape or strapping applied directly to the skin
2. Non-adhesive skin traction - Uses foam boots or wraps that do not adhere to the skin1<ref name="ref6">6</ref>
 
== Equipment Needed ==
 
To apply skin traction, you will need:
 
- Skin traction kit (adhesive or non-adhesive)
- Crepe bandages
- Padding material
- Scissors
- Traction cord and pulleys
- Weights (typically 5-7 lbs)
- Spreader bar
- Traction frame or Balkan beam1<ref name="ref2">2</ref>
 
== Application Procedure  ==
 
=== Preparation ===
 
1. Explain the procedure to the patient and obtain consent
2. Position the patient supine on the bed
3. Perform and document baseline neurovascular assessment of the affected limb
4. Gather all necessary equipment1<ref name="ref3">3</ref>
 
=== Applying the Traction ===
 
1. With an assistant providing manual traction to the limb, apply the skin traction:
 
  For adhesive traction:
  - Clean and dry the skin
  - Apply adhesive spray or friar's balsam to improve adhesion
  - Apply the adhesive straps from just above the malleoli to the upper thigh, leaving the knee exposed
  - Place padding over bony prominences like the malleoli
 
  For non-adhesive traction:
  - Apply the foam boot or wrap from above the ankle to the upper thigh1<ref name="ref2">2</ref>[6]
 
2. Wrap crepe bandages spirally over the traction material, overlapping by half
3. Leave approximately 10-15 cm of space between the sole of the foot and the end of the traction to allow ankle movement
4. Attach the spreader bar to the end of the traction material1<ref name="ref2">2</ref>
 
=== Setting Up the Traction System ===
 
1. Attach the traction cord to the spreader bar
2. Run the cord through the pulley system on the traction frame
3. Attach the prescribed weight (usually 5-7 lbs for skin traction)
4. Ensure the weight hangs freely without touching the floor
5. Position the limb with slight flexion at the knee and hip
6. For balanced traction, place a padded sling under the knee2<ref name="ref4">4</ref>
 
== Aftercare and Monitoring ==
 
- Perform regular neurovascular checks of the limb (every 2-4 hours initially)
- Assess skin integrity, especially over bony prominences
- Monitor for pain, swelling, or changes in sensation
- Ensure weights remain hanging freely
- Reapply or adjust traction as needed (at least every 24 hours)
- Encourage range of motion exercises for unaffected joints
- Provide patient education on mobility restrictions and care1<ref name="ref3">3</ref>[6]
 
== Potential Complications ==
 
- Skin breakdown or pressure injuries
- Blistering
- Neurovascular compromise
- Muscle atrophy
- Joint stiffness
- Malunion of fracture4<ref name="ref6">6</ref>
 
== Contraindications ==
 
- Open wounds or skin infections in the traction area
- Severe peripheral vascular disease
- Certain types of unstable fractures[6]
 
By following these steps and guidelines, healthcare professionals can safely and effectively apply skin traction to patients requiring this intervention. Regular monitoring and adjustment are crucial to prevent complications and ensure optimal outcomes.
 
== References ==
<references />
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