What is the appropriate angle to elevate the head of the bed for a client in Buck traction?

The correct angle to elevate the head of the bed for a client in Buck traction is 15 degrees. When a patient is in Buck traction, the primary purpose is to align the skeletal structure and relieve muscle spasms in the context of a fractured hip or femur. Elevating the head of the bed too high can add undue stress to the traction system and potentially compromise the therapeutic effect by altering the force distribution on the affected limb. A slight elevation, around 15 degrees, allows for comfort and safety, supporting the therapeutic needs of the patient while maintaining the effectiveness of the traction setup.

In contrast, a 90-degree elevation would place the patient in a sitting position, which is not suitable for someone in traction, as it could obstruct the intended alignment and increase pain or discomfort. Likewise, 60 and 45 degrees would significantly elevate the torso and create similar complications to those posed by a complete upright position, counteracting the benefits of Buck traction. Therefore, the 15-degree angle is deemed optimal for ensuring both patient safety and the integrity of the traction apparatus.