Page 51 - Orthopedic Casts and Splints2

Performance Steps
b. Bed rails are upright and locked.
c. Bed wheels are locked.
25. Inspect traction equipment.
NOTE: Traction principles promote the effectiveness of traction. Any type of friction will reduce the
efficiency of traction and hinder the pull and cause further discomfort to the patient.
a. The weight carriers are hanging freely w/o touching the bed/frame/floor.
b. All knots are secured ( tapped) .
c. All traction cords are centered on the track of the pulleys.
d. All traction cords are hanging freely w/o touching the bed or frame.
NOTE: Traction equipment is checked daily to promote effective medical care to the patient.

26. Give patient verbal instruction on Pelvic Traction.
a. The pelvic belt should not impede breathing
b. Inform patient to press the nurse call button on the side of the bed rails for assistance.
c. Padding should always be placed at or around the iliac crest to reduce skin irritation and
pressure.

Performance Measures GO NO GO
1. Received the order from the physician ( reviewed if in writing) —— ——
2. Gathered needed equipment. —— ——

3. Assembled materials. —— ——
4. Checked serviceability of overhead traction frame and bed. —— ——

5. Identified yourself to the patient. —— ——
6. Explained the procedure to the patient. —— ——

7. Positioned the supine patient in the middle of the bed. —— ——
8. Prepared patient's hips and legs for pelvic traction. —— ——

9. Checked patient capillary refill of both feet. —— ——
10. Measured patient's waist for pelvic traction belt sizing. —— ——
11. Secured (2) cross clamps to the center of each vertical double clamp bar at —— ——
the foot of the bed.
12. Secured single plain bar to cross clamps. —— ——

13. Secured (2) 5 or 9 inch single clamp bars to cross bar at foot of bed. —— ——
14. Secured one pulley to each single clamp bar. —— ——

15. Applied pelvic traction belt to patient. —— ——
16. Placed straps on pelvic belt. —— ——
17. Attached S hooks to D rings. —— ——

18. Tied traction cords to S hooks and weight carriers. —— ——
19. Applied weight plates to weight carriers. —— ——

20. Elevated or raised the foot of the bed. —— ——

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