An example of a cervical skeletal traction device is:

GMCH - 2016

Medical & Surgical Nursing

Easy

Appeared in: GMCH - 2016

Explanation

The Halo device is a form of external skeletal traction specifically designed to immobilize the cervical spine.
It consists of a metal ring (halo) that is secured to the outer table of the skull with four pins.
The ring is connected by rods to a rigid vest (halo vest) worn on the chest, providing the most rigid form of non-operative cervical spine immobilization.
This device is used for complex cervical spine fractures or instability, allowing the patient to be mobile while the spine heals.

Option B: Buck's traction is a type of skin traction, not skeletal traction. It applies force to the skin and soft tissues, not directly to the bone.
Option C: A Thomas splint is a device used to immobilize lower limb fractures, specifically the femur. It is a splint, not a form of cervical skeletal traction.
Option D: A Cramer wire splint is a malleable, wire-ladder splint used for temporary immobilization of various limb injuries. It is not a traction device and is not used for the cervical spine.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Types of Traction and Immobilization Devices as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Proper nursing care for a patient with a Halo device is critical to prevent complications. Meticulous pin site care is essential to prevent pin tract infections, which can lead to osteomyelitis or even intracranial abscess.
A key safety measure is to ensure the appropriate wrench is taped to the front of the halo vest at all times. This allows for rapid removal of the vest in an emergency, such as during CPR.
What if? If a patient with a halo device suddenly develops a fever, a severe headache, and purulent drainage from a pin site, the nurse must immediately suspect a serious infection. The priority action is to notify the healthcare provider for urgent assessment and intervention, as this could signify a life-threatening complication.

How to Approach the Question

First, break down the question into its core components: 'cervical' (relating to the neck) and 'skeletal traction' (involving pins or wires inserted into the bone).
Evaluate each option against these two criteria.
Consider Option A, the Halo device. This device uses pins inserted into the skull to immobilize the cervical spine, fitting both criteria.
Analyze Option B, Buck's traction. This is skin traction (not skeletal) and is used for the lower limbs (not cervical).
Examine Option C, the Thomas splint. This is a splint for the lower limb, not a cervical device.
Look at Option D, the Cramer wire splint. This is a temporary splint for extremities, not a form of skeletal traction for the neck.

Concept Tested & Keywords

QZ53BDGPXPBtKi3yjb_SPu

E6 Nursing Brunner Adult Health 3SA Vol 2 Part 2 p. 98-100

E6 Nursing Brunner Adult Health 3SA Vol 1 Part 4 pp. 127-129, 125-127