OTC Orthopaedic Technologist Certified Traction Principles and Application 3

Question 1

Russell's traction differs from straight Buck's traction primarily because it:

Accepted Answer

Adds a sling under the knee to create a resultant upward and longitudinal force

Answer

Russell's traction uses a knee sling to create a combined longitudinal and upward force vector, suspending the knee and pulling the femur.

Question 2

During cervical halter traction, the chin and occiput must bear weight equally primarily to:

Accepted Answer

Avoid temporomandibular joint (TMJ) stress and skin breakdown

Answer

Unequal weight distribution in cervical halter traction places excessive pressure on the TMJ and can cause skin breakdown over bony prominences.

Question 3

Dunlop traction is specifically indicated for which fracture?

Accepted Answer

Supracondylar humerus fractures in children

Answer

Dunlop traction is used for supracondylar humerus fractures in children when surgical fixation is delayed or as a temporizing measure.

Question 4

Counter-traction in a bed-bound traction patient is most commonly achieved by:

Accepted Answer

Elevating the foot of the bed

Answer

Elevating the foot of the bed uses the patient's body weight as counter-traction, preventing the patient from sliding toward the traction.

Question 5

In 90-90 traction for femoral shaft fractures, the hip and knee are each maintained at approximately:

Accepted Answer

90° flexion

Answer

90-90 traction positions both the hip and knee at 90° of flexion, which relaxes the hamstrings and allows better fracture alignment.

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