Page 29 - Orthopedic Casts and Splints2

Performance Steps

6
(Skin) Balanced Suspension Traction

NOTE: Inform patient or family member that Balanced Suspension is used for fractures of the femoral
shaft, hip and lower leg traction and designed to reduce muscle strain associated with fractures, and
assist in alignment of bones. Adhesive vent foam strap with spreader block or Buck's traction boot is
secured to the injured leg with elastic bandages and supported by the Thomas Leg Splint with
Pearson attachment. (Refer to Figure 3-x)

CAUTION: The trapeze handle should be secured to the trapeze clamp when not in use to prevent
further injury to patient. Technician will demonstrate how to use and secure the trapeze for patient or
family member (s).

7. Position the supine patient in the middle of the bed.
NOTE: Nursing personnel may be used with patient positioning.

8. Prepare patient's injured leg and ankle for balanced suspension traction.
a. Place examination gloves on hands.
CAUTION: Always practice Body Substance Isolation (BSI) prior to applying traction, splints or casts
to patients.
b. Remove patient's shoes and socks.
CAUTION: Always have the same gender chaperone available when patient's personal
property/clothing are to be removed.
NOTE: Give shoes/socks to family member or nursing personnel.
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