Identify the image:

Combined AIIMS - 2020 (Jodhpur, Bhopal, Patna, Raipur)

Medical & Surgical Nursing

Easy

Appeared in: Combined AIIMS - 2020 (Jodhpur, Bhopal, Patna, Raipur)

Explanation

The device shown in the image is a halo traction system, used for cervical spine immobilization.
Key visual features include a metal ring (halo) fixed to the skull with pins, which is connected by vertical bars to a rigid vest worn on the torso.
This setup provides maximum stability to the cervical vertebrae, which is its primary function.
The other options refer to traction methods for different parts of the spine (thoracic, lumbar) or for different purposes (facet joint decompression), and they use different equipment like belts and harnesses, not a halo vest.

Option B: Facet joint traction is a non-invasive procedure, typically performed in physical therapy using harnesses and a traction machine to gently stretch the spine. It does not involve a surgically implanted halo and vest.
Option C: Thoracic traction targets the mid-back. It is less common and typically uses harnesses or belts around the chest and torso, not a device attached to the head.
Option D: Lumbar traction is used for the lower back. It is most often applied using a pelvic harness and a traction table that gently pulls the lower part of the body to decompress the lumbar vertebrae.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Identification of medical devices used for spinal immobilization as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nursing care for a patient in a halo vest is complex and requires meticulous attention to prevent complications. Key responsibilities include pin site care, skin assessment under the vest, and continuous neurological monitoring.
Patient education is crucial. The nurse must teach the patient and family how to care for the device at home, signs of complications to report, and emergency procedures, such as what to do if a pin becomes loose.
What if? If the patient with a halo device develops a fever, headache, and purulent drainage from a pin site, the nurse must suspect a pin site infection, a serious complication that can lead to osteomyelitis or an intracranial abscess. The immediate nursing action is to notify the primary healthcare provider for urgent assessment and intervention, which may include antibiotics and pin removal.

How to Approach the Question

First, carefully examine the image to identify the key components of the medical device shown. Note the metal ring around the head and the vest on the torso.
Analyze the name of each option. 'Halo' suggests a ring, which matches the device's appearance.
Consider the anatomical location each option refers to: 'Halo' (head/neck), 'Facet joint' (specific joints), 'Thoracic' (mid-back), and 'Lumbar' (low-back).
Correlate the device's placement on the patient (head and chest) with the anatomical terms in the options. The device clearly immobilizes the head relative to the torso, pointing to a cervical spine issue.
Based on the visual evidence of a ring-like 'halo' and its function in stabilizing the neck, select 'Halo traction' as the most accurate identification.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Identification of medical devices used for spinal immobilization.
Stem keywords: Identify, image
Lead-in keywords: BEST, MOST RELEVANT CLUE
Negative lead-in flag: false

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E6 Nursing Brunner Adult Health 3SA Vol 2 Part 2 pp. 98-100, 102-104

E6 Nursing Brunner Adult Health 3SA Vol 1 Part 4 p. 127-129