Application of a self-assembly adjustable traction frame for patients with severe trauma and fracture of lower limb in ICU

Abstract

Objective To introduce a self-assembled adjustable traction frame for the patients with severe trauma and lower limb fracture in ICU, compared with Brawns traction frame. Methods 96 patients with severe trauma and lower limb fracture diagnosed by clinical signs and X-ray who had to be transferred to ICU were randomly divided into the study group (46 cases) and the control group (50 cases) by sealing letters method.The study group were tracted by the self-assembled adjustable traction frame, and the control group were tracted by the Brawns traction frame. The fracture alignment, degree of pain, incidence of pressure ulcers, nursing limit time of changing the sheets of the two groups were observed. Results The results declared that 37 cases with 2 pain score points, 9 cases with 0-1 points in the study group and 19 cases with 2 pain score points, 3 cases with 0-1 points, 28 cases with Grade 3 in the control group (χ2=38.683, P < 0.01). In the control group, pressure ulcer were occurred, 5 of them at Level one, 1 of them at Level two, 1 of them at Level three and the incidence rate was 14.00% (7/50). In the study group, pressure ulcer were occurred, 1 of them at Level two and the incidence rate was 2.17% (1/46). The pain level and incidence of pressure sore in the study group were decreased and the difference between the two groups was significant (χ2=8.197, P < 0.05). Conclusions The self-assembly adjustable traction rack can not only ensure the same effect as the Brawns traction frame but also reduce the deficiency caused by Brown traction frame. It is safer and more comfortable for the patients and can reduce nursing complications and improve the quality and efficiency of the nursing work. Key words: Traction frame; Intensive care unit; Lower limb fracture; Nursing complications