What is the recommended amount of traction to apply to a suspected femur injury?

Study for the NOLS Wilderness Emergency Medical Technician (WEMT) Test with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each offering hints and explanations. Prepare for your exam confidently!

In cases of suspected femur injuries, applying the correct amount of traction is crucial for proper immobilization and pain management. The recommended approach is to apply roughly 10 percent of the patient's body weight, while ensuring that the amount does not exceed 15 pounds. This guideline is based on the need to stabilize the fracture adequately and prevent further injury while also minimizing discomfort to the patient.

Applying too much traction can lead to additional pain or complications, while insufficient traction may not stabilize the fracture effectively. Using 10 percent of the body weight provides a balanced approach that allows for stabilization of the broken femur without causing further disruption of surrounding tissues.

The other options suggest methods that either apply too much or too little traction, potentially leading to poor patient outcomes. Therefore, adhering to the guideline of roughly 10 percent of body weight, limited to a maximum of 15 pounds, ensures that the traction is both effective and safe for the patient.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy