OTC Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Traction Principles and Application 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which component of a traction setup is responsible for redirecting the line of pull?
- Spreader bar
- Pulley (Correct answer)
- Thomas splint
- Footplate
Correct answer: Pulley
Pulleys redirect the line of pull so the traction force can be applied at the correct angle.
Question 2: When applying Buck's traction, the limb should be maintained in what position?
- External rotation with slight flexion
- Internal rotation with 30° abduction
- Neutral alignment with slight elevation (Correct answer)
- Full extension with no pillow support
Correct answer: Neutral alignment with slight elevation
Buck's traction requires the limb in neutral alignment, typically with slight elevation to counteract swelling and maintain comfort.
Question 3: Which type of traction uses a pin or wire inserted directly through bone?
- Skin traction
- Skeletal traction (Correct answer)
- Manual traction
- Halter traction
Correct answer: Skeletal traction
Skeletal traction applies force directly to bone via a surgically placed pin or wire, allowing heavier weights than skin traction.
Question 4: The maximum recommended weight for skin traction in adults is typically:
- 5–8 lbs (Correct answer)
- 10–15 lbs
- 20–25 lbs
- 30–35 lbs
Correct answer: 5–8 lbs
Skin traction is generally limited to 5–8 lbs in adults to prevent skin breakdown and soft tissue injury.
Question 5: Bryant's traction is contraindicated in children older than:
- 1 year
- 2 years (Correct answer)
- 3 years
- 5 years
Correct answer: 2 years
Bryant's traction is contraindicated in children over 2 years of age or weighing more than 12–14 kg due to risk of vascular compromise.
Question 6: A Thomas splint is most commonly used in conjunction with which type of traction?
- Cervical halter traction
- Russell's traction
- 90-90 femoral traction (Correct answer)
- Dunlop traction
Correct answer: 90-90 femoral traction
A Thomas splint supports the thigh and is routinely combined with 90-90 femoral skeletal traction for femur fracture management.
Question 7: What is the primary purpose of a spreader bar in skin traction?
- To anchor the traction rope to the bed frame
- To distribute traction force evenly across the foam boot (Correct answer)
- To elevate the limb above the level of the heart
- To prevent counter-traction from being applied
Correct answer: To distribute traction force evenly across the foam boot
The spreader bar distributes the traction force evenly across the width of the foam boot or bandage, preventing pressure concentration.
OTC Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Traction Principles and Application 2
Which component of a traction setup is responsible for redirecting the line of pull?