THE PROCEDURE

I. Purpose and identification of traction

used in the treatment of fractured extremities;

1. To lessen muscle spasm

2. To reduce fracture

3. To provide immobilization

4. To maintain alignment

5. To correct or prevent deformities in the case of arthritis patient with flexion

contraction

6. To help lessen the curvature of the spine before correction surgery

PREPARATION

II. The golden rule is to first check the doctor’s order

to verify the patient’s name, the extremity to be placed in Balanced skeletal traction, and the weights to
be applied.

III. After this, the patient has to be prepared psychologically

a. Introduce yourself
b. Inform the patient on what is to be done
c. The purpose of the treatment
d. Expectations from the patient
e. Nurse’s expectation from the patient

These will help alleviate anxiety and encourage participation from the client.

Segue: Sotify and prepare the needed equipment for applying Balanced skeletal traction

II. Identification of parts

a. Orthopedic bed
*has Balkan frame:

- 2 horizontal bars

- 4 vertical bars

- diagonal bar

- 3 pulleys

We also have the

- Cross bar
 - Overhead trapeze

- Firm mattress

- Fracture board

b. BST equipments

- Thomas splint

- Pearson’s attachment

- Rest splint

- Braun Bohler Splint

- Slings

- Clips or safety pins

- Foot board

- 3 cords with varying lenghts: -Thigh rope (shortest), Traction rope (midlength), and Suspension
rope (longest)

- Traction weight (10% of the patient’s body weight)

- Suspension weight (50% of the traction weight)

*After completion of BST(V.) and before removal of BST (VII.)

CHECK for the EFFICIENCY OF traction by swinging forward, backward, and sideways

PRINCIPLES OF SKELETAL TRACTION

1. Have an opposite pull or counter traction.

2. The application of shock block or lock and weight of the patient serve as the counter traction.

3. Line of pull should be in line with the deformity. The 1st pulley should be in line with the inguinal or
groin area. The 2nd pulley should be in line with the knee, and 3rd pulley should be in line with the 1st
and 2nd pulley

4. Traction should be continuous.

5. The position of the patient should be in dorsal recumbent.

6. It should be free from friction;

- Weights should be hanging freely.

- Observe for signs of wear and tear on the ropes and bags.

- Ropes should run freely along the groove of the pulley.

- There should be no knots near the pulley