Following a spinal cord injury a patient is placed in halo traction. While performing pin site care, the nurse notes that one of the traction pins has become detached. The nurse would be correct in implementing what priority nursing action?
A) Complete the pin site care to decrease risk of infection
B) Notify the neurosurgeon of the occurrence
C) Stabilize the head in a lateral position
D) Reattach the pin to prevent further head trauma
Ans: B
Feedback: If one of the pins became detached, the head is stabilized in neutral position by one person while another notifies the neurosurgeon. A torque screwdriver should be available should the screws on the frame need tightening. Reattaching the pin as a nursing intervention would not be done due to risk of increased injury. Pin site care would not be a priority in this instance. Prevention of neurologic injury is the priority.
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