The Real Purpose of Buck's Traction

Musculoskeletal & Perfusion · Question from the ATI RN Medical-Surgical 2023 Proctored Exam study set

Correct answer: B. To reduce muscle spasm

Why this is the answer

Buck's skin traction is a temporary, preoperative measure that keeps gentle, steady pull on the limb, which reduces the painful muscle spasms that surrounding muscles produce in response to a fracture. Realigning the bone (A) overstates what this traction does — it is not strong enough or precise enough to reduce (realign) a fracture; that requires surgical fixation. Preventing infection (C) has nothing to do with traction, which is a mechanical, not an antimicrobial, intervention. Increasing mobility (D) is backwards — traction restricts the limb's movement, it doesn't increase it.

The bigger concept

Buck's traction is a good example of a comfort-and-stabilization measure rather than a curative one — it buys time and eases pain before definitive surgical repair, which is the actual treatment for most displaced hip fractures.

Related Musculoskeletal & Perfusion practice questions

• The Earliest Sign of Compartment Syndrome
• Cold, Blue Toes in a Casted Leg: What to Do First
• Confusion and Petechiae After a Femur Fracture
• What Homans' Sign Used to Screen For
• The Classic Leg Position With a Hip Fracture

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