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Buck's traction is certainly one of the more common traction setups seen in orthopaedic patient care today. However, just because it is common doesn't mean we can take it for granted. Specific setup techniques as well as patient evaluation methods must be understood if the traction is to accomplish its task. The goal of this article is to go through some of the basics in techniques and perhaps explain why this traction is so commonly used.
Buck's traction, also known as bilateral or unilateral leg skin traction, is a short-term, continuous type of traction. Buck's traction exerts a pulling force on the soft tissue of the leg, while the patient's body provides the resistance.
Buck's traction is indicated to:
1. help stabilize fractures of the hip or femur prior to surgery
2. counter the effects of muscle spasm
3. assist in the relief of low back pain
4. help maintain position following total hip arthroplasty
5. assist in the correction of hip and knee contracture
Buck's traction may be contraindicated in patients who have an open or draining wound on the affected extremity, a dermatologic problem, or disease state that predisposes the patient to skin damage or poor healing (e.g., diabetes).
1. If the patient is preoperative or has a hip fracture that is not immobilized, DO NOT manipulate the extremity. The function of Buck's traction is to decrease the effects of muscle spasm and thereby promote patient comfort. The effect of traction should be the gradual improvement of fracture alignment. Surgery corrects the alignment, not traction.
2. The patient's skin and neurovascular condition of the affected limb must be assessed before traction application. In addition, any findings of concern should be reported to the physician prior to traction application.
3. Review the physician order for specific requirements.
4. Explain, in advance, the plan and purpose of the traction to the patient.
5. Lower the entire bed to its lowest position.
Other Tips
Everybody does not fit in a "medium" boot.
You must constantly monitor the effectiveness of the traction with regard to alignment, function and its effect on the patient's physical and psychologic condition.
Neurovascular and skin checks should be performed once a shift, while constantly maintaining traction. Standard Nursing Process is used...