A client sustained a left femur fracture 3 hours ago. Initial vital signs and assessment were within normal limits with the exception of left leg pain.
The nurse re-assesses the client and documents the following:
- Temp: 37.2 C Pain: 7/10-chest 5/10 left leg.
- Pulse: 110 bpm
- Respirations: 40 breaths per min, labored 02 saturation: 88%
- Neuro: A&O x 3. Anxious Skin: Petechiae to neck and anterior chest.
Based on this assessment, which action is appropriate at this time?
Notify the healthcare provider that the client's pain is not well-managed
Reassure the client that the pain and stress of the fracture will soon get better.
Order a chest CT Computerized Tomography) to rule out a pulmonary embolus (PE).
Notify the healthcare provider that the client may have a fat embolism
The Correct Answer is D
Fat embolism syndrome can occur when fat globules enter the bloodstream after a long bone fracture, such as a femur fracture. The fat globules can travel to the lungs and cause respiratory distress and decreased oxygen saturation. The symptoms observed in the client, including tachypnea (labored breathing), decreased oxygen saturation (88%), and the presence of petechiae (small red or purple spots) on the neck and anterior chest, are consistent with fat embolism syndrome.
Fat embolism syndrome is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. Notifying the healthcare provider allows for prompt evaluation, confirmation of the diagnosis, and initiation of appropriate treatment. This may involve further diagnostic tests such as a chest CT scan, as mentioned in one of the options, to rule out other potential causes or complications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Gabapentin (Neurontin) is often used to treat neuropathic pain, including pain associated with peripheral neuropathy. It may also be used to manage other types of chronic pain, such as pain associated with fibromyalgia. While gabapentin is primarily an anticonvulsant medication, it is also used off-label for various other conditions, such as mood disorders and anxiety.
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
The initial bundle of care in sepsis includes the following:
- Obtain blood cultures: Blood cultures help identify the specific microorganism causing the infection, which is important for guiding appropriate antibiotic therapy.
- Administer broad-spectrum antibiotics: Early administration of antibiotics is crucial in sepsis to target the suspected or likely infectious organisms. Broad-spectrum antibiotics cover a wide range of potential pathogens until more specific information from culture results is available.
- Obtain lactate levels: Measuring lactate levels helps assess tissue perfusion and can be used as an indicator of the severity of sepsis. Elevated lactate levels are associated with tissue hypoperfusion and increased mortality.
- Administer IV fluid bolus: Early aggressive fluid resuscitation is an essential component of sepsis management. Administering intravenous fluids helps restore intravascular volume and improve tissue perfusion.
- Administration of vasopressors: Especially in the setting of hypotension and to maintain MAP above 65mmHg.
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