For a patient weighing 150 pounds, what is the maximum traction in pounds according to the guideline?

• A. 10 pounds
• B. 12 pounds
• C. 15 pounds
• D. 20 pounds

Answer: (C)

Traction weight is kept low and proportional to body weight, with a cap to prevent overdoing it. The guideline uses about 5–7% of body weight, but no more than 15 pounds. For a 150-pound patient, that range would be roughly 7.5–10.5 pounds, and the maximum you should apply is 15 pounds. So the reason 15 pounds is the correct choice is that it represents the upper limit defined by the guideline, ensuring enough traction to aid alignment while avoiding tissue or nerve injury from excessive force.