In caring for a child in skeletal traction, what is the nurse’s priority action?

The priority action in caring for a child in skeletal traction is assessing neurovascular status. This is critical because skeletal traction involves the application of forces to align fractured bones and can potentially compromise blood flow and nerve function to the affected limbs. Regular assessment of neurovascular status, which includes checking circulation, sensation, and movement, is essential to identify any signs of complicationsearly, such as impaired blood flow or nerve injury.

While encouraging the use of an incentive spirometer is important for preventing respiratory complications, particularly in children who may be immobilized due to traction, it does not take precedence over ensuring that the child's neurovascular status is stable. Monitoring pain levels is important as well but is part of broader comfort management rather than a priority safety assessment. Additionally, providing educational materials is helpful for both the child and the family but does not address immediate safety and clinical concerns like neurovascular assessment does. Hence, ensuring proper circulation and nerve function is the foremost priority in this scenario.