Buck traction is used to immobilize which fractures?

• A. Immobilizes hip/femur fractures
• B. Immobilizes wrist fractures
• C. Treats ankle sprains
• D. Relieves back pain

Answer: (A)

Buck traction uses a skin traction setup to apply a straight, gentle pull along the leg, helping to align a hip or proximal femur fracture and reduce muscle spasm while awaiting definitive treatment. It provides initial immobilization of the injured limb in proper alignment, which is essential for preventing further displacement and easing pain. This method is not used for wrist fractures, ankle sprains, or back pain, where other management like casts, braces, or different therapies would be more appropriate. In practice, nursing care focuses on maintaining skin integrity, neurovascular status, and the traction setup (weights hanging freely, leg aligned, and foot position) to keep the traction effective.