Page 56 - Orthopedic Casts and Splints2

Performance Steps
b. The straps should not be tangled or touching the bed.

18. Check single clamp bar alignment with the patient's head.
NOTE: If single clamp bar is not center to the posterior of the patient's head, remove weights and go to
step 10.
19. Check patient's capillary refill of both hands and patent airway.
a. Squeeze the patient's fingers and the nail beds will turn white.
b. Release the patient's fingers and the nail beds will return pink .
CAUTION:If capillary refill is delayed for more than 2 seconds inform physician and follow physician's
order
c. Ask the patient to articulate(e.g. name, date, time)
NOTE: Adjust straps as needed.
20. Inspect overhead traction frame and bed.
a. All clamps are tightened and locked.
b. Bed rails are upright and locked.
c. Bed wheels are locked.
21. Inspect traction equipment.
NOTE: Traction principles promote the effectiveness of traction. Any friction will reduce the efficiency of
traction and hinder the pull and cause further discomfort to the patient.
a. The weight carrier is hanging freely w/o touching the bed/frame/floor.
b. All knots are secured ( tapped).
c. The traction cord is centered on the track of the pulley.
d. The traction cord is hanging freely w/o touching the bed/frame.
NOTE: Traction equipment is checked daily to promote effective medical care to the patient.

22. Instruct patient on releasing the head halter.
NOTE: The physician may order the traction released throughout the day for brief periods.
a. Have patient grasp the end of the spreader bar.
NOTE: The technician may guide the patient's hand to the spreader bar.
b. Have patient pull the bar towards head.
c. With the patient's opposite hand, grasp the D ring on the side of the head halter.
d. Have patient release the D ring from the spreader bar.
e. Have patient slowly release the spreader bar.
CAUTION: Slowly releasing the spreader bar reduces further injury to patient.
f. Have patient demonstrate head halter application and removal technique.
23. Give patient verbal instruction on Cervical traction.
a. Inform patient to press the nurse call button on the side of the bed rails for assistance if
needed.
b. The head halter should not impede breathing.
c. Padding should always be placed at or around the temporal region to reduce skin irritation
and pressure.
d. Patient should only remove head halter with physician permission.

Performance Measures GO NO GO
1. Received or reviewed the order from the physician. —— ——
2. Gathered equipment. —— ——

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

5. Identified yourself to the patient. —— ——

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