Which area should be assessed as high risk for pressure and breakdown in a client with skeletal traction?

In a client with skeletal traction, the left heel should be assessed as high risk for pressure and breakdown due to the positioning and the effects of traction on the body. Skeletal traction can lead to prolonged immobility and the inability to shift weight, which increases the risk of pressure ulcers, particularly on bony prominences.

The heel, being a notable pressure point when a patient is in a supine position, is at risk because the weight of the body, combined with the pressure from any external devices or the traction apparatus, can impede blood flow to the tissues in that area. Therefore, consistent assessment and preventive measures, such as repositioning and the use of pressure-relief devices, are crucial to avoid skin breakdown.

While the other options, such as the right heel and both elbows, may also be areas of concern, the left heel in the context of skeletal traction is particularly vulnerable, making it essential to monitor this area closely for signs of pressure injury.