Page 53 - Orthopedic Casts and Splints2

APPLY CERVICAL TRACTION (SKIN)
081-834-0008
Conditions: Given a patient requiring Cervical traction supine on a power controlled orthopaedic bed with
overhead traction frame ,nursing personnel, family member, physician, physician's written or verbal
order, patient's medical record or Standard Form 513, pulley with attachment, adjustable head halter, 6
feet of traction cord, 5 or 9 inch single clamp bar, spreader bar, (2) 8 x 7 inch combine surgipad (ABD
pad), weight carrier, (2) weight plates(1, 2, 4, 5, 10 lbs increments), roll of 2 inch paper tape, scissors,
work cart/station, trapeze, examination gloves and trash receptacle.
Standards: Is reached when the padded adjustable head halter with spreader bar attached is secured
to the occipital region and chin of the patient. The traction cord is tied to the spreader bar, threaded
through the pulley and tied to the weight carrier at the head of the bed. The weight plates identified in
the physician's order are applied to the weight carrier at the head of bed . Airway management test is
administrated and passed successfully.

Performance Steps

1. Receive the order from the physician (review if in writing)
2. Gather needed equipment to include padded head halter, pulley, weight carrier, weight plates and
single clamp bar.

3. Assemble materials to include roll of adhesive tape, traction cord, surgipads, examination gloves,
scissors. Place on work cart/station.

4. Check serviceability of overhead traction frame and bed.
a. Inspect traction equipment for cracked, dented, and warped bars, or broken handles. Open all
clamp holders.
NOTE: Turn all unserviceable equipment over to supervisor and continue to gather serviceable
equipment.
b. Inspect orthopaedic bed as follows:
(1) Bed rails are in the upright position and locked.
(2) Bed electrical cord/plug are not frayed.
(3) Remote control buttons are operational ( e. g. head/foot elevation, raise/lower position,
and nurse call button ).
(4) Bed wheels are locked.
NOTE: Inform nurse if any of (1)-(4) failed and inspect another bed.
5. Identify yourself to the patient.
NOTE: Tell the patient your name and job title.

6. Explain the procedure to the patient.

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