patient movement that is permissible while still maintaining the desired traction pull.
The basic position of the patient and permissible movement differ according to the type
of traction used and these factors determine the basic nursing care plan. The following
paragraphs discuss several of the most commonly used forms of skin traction.
1-29. BUCK'S EXTENSION TRACTION
a. This form of skin traction to the lower limb (see figure 1-14) provides for
straight pull through a single pulley attached to a crossbar at the foot of the bed. The
limb in traction lies parallel to the bed. The foot of the bed is routinely elevated to
provide counter traction and to keep the patient from being pulled down to the foot of
the bed. In Buck's extension traction, the patient is usually not allowed to turn and must
remain flat on his back.
b. Check alignment of the leg to maintain a straight line of pull from the rope
attached to the spreader bar to the pulley mounted on the foot of the bed. Also check
the bandage wrappings and tape or moleskin strips to be sure that they are adhering
properly and have not slipped downward. Report immediately if any part of the
wrappings or traction apparatus appears to be out of place.
Figure 1-14. Buck's traction.
MD0916
1-31