What is a significant risk factor for clients in traction regarding their skin?

The significant risk factor for clients in traction regarding their skin is skin breakdown. Traction applies continuous force to the body to align bones and relieve pressure, but this mechanism can lead to prolonged pressure on certain areas of the skin, reducing blood flow. When blood circulation is compromised due to pressure, the skin can become ischemic, leading to breakdown or ulceration over time.

Maintaining skin integrity is crucial, especially in individuals who may already have limited mobility due to their underlying condition or the effects of traction. Prolonged pressure on bony prominences, combined with factors such as moisture, friction, and immobility can exacerbate the risk of skin breakdown.

While loss of muscle strength and the development of pressure ulcers can occur as consequences of immobility and the traction treatment itself, skin breakdown is a more direct result of the pressure dynamics inherent in traction therapy. Increased mobility, in this context, would actually reduce the risk of both skin breakdown and pressure ulcers, making it less relevant as a risk factor.