A nurse assessing a client who has multiple fractures in his left leg notes increasing edema. The nurse should recognize this finding as an early manifestation of which of the following complications?
Fat embolism syndrome
Pulmonary embolism
Acute compartment syndrome
Osteomyelitis
The Correct Answer is C
A. Fat embolism syndrome - This is characterized by respiratory distress, altered mental status, and petechial rash. It is not associated with increasing edema.
B. Pulmonary embolism - This occurs when a blood clot (usually from the legs) travels to the lungs and can present with symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, and rapid heart rate. It is not associated with increasing edema around a fracture site.
C. Acute compartment syndrome - This is a serious condition that occurs when increased pressure within a muscle compartment impairs blood supply, leading to tissue ischemia and necrosis. Increasing edema is an early sign of compartment syndrome.
D. Osteomyelitis - This is an infection of the bone and is not typically associated with increasing edema around a fracture site. It may present with local signs of infection like warmth, redness, and tenderness.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Hypovolemic shock is characterized by a significant loss of blood volume. While it can occur due to severe trauma, the symptoms of shortness of breath and chest pain are more indicative of a potential respiratory issue, making Fat Embolism Syndrome (FES) a higher concern in this case.
B. Correct. Given the client's recent multiple long bone fractures and the symptoms of shortness of breath and chest pain, the nurse should be concerned about the possibility of fat embolism syndrome (FES). FES can occur as a result of long bone fractures, particularly those involving the femur, pelvis, or tibia. Fat emboli can enter thebloodstream and potentially obstruct blood vessels, leading to symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, and altered mental status.
C. Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a condition involving the formation of blood clots in the veins, which can lead to complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE). While this is a consideration for clients with immobilization due to fractures, it is not the primary concern in this case based on the presenting symptoms.
D. Compartment syndrome is a condition characterized by increased pressure within a muscle compartment, leading to decreased blood flow and potential tissue damage. While it can occur after fractures, it typically presents with symptoms like severe pain, swelling, and tense muscles, rather than shortness of breath and chest pain.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Drying time is typically shorter with a synthetic cast compared to a plaster cast. Synthetic casts are designed to set faster, reducing the time the patient needs to remain immobilized during casting.
B. A synthetic cast is generally lighter in weight than a plaster cast. This can be more comfortable for the patient and may reduce the risk of muscle atrophy or discomfort associated with the cast's weight.
C. A plaster cast does not necessarily require expensive equipment for application, and both plaster and synthetic casts can be applied using relatively simple and cost-effective methods.
D. The effectiveness of immobilization is not significantly different between plaster and synthetic casts. Both types of casts can provide adequate immobilization for bone fractures, and the choice between them may depend on factors like patient preference, the type of fracture, and other clinical considerations.
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