A nurse is assessing a client who is 24 hours postoperative following an open reduction and internal fixation to repair a fracture of the femur. Which of the following assessment findings is an early manifestation of fat embolism syndrome (FES)?
Headache
Dyspnea
Red-brown petechiae
Altered mental status
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Headache can be associated with FES; however, it is not typically considered an early sign. It may occur as a part of the broader spectrum of symptoms.
Choice B reason: Dyspnea, or difficulty breathing, is one of the earliest signs of FES. Patients may experience shortness of breath due to fat globules obstructing pulmonary vessels.
Choice C reason: Red-brown petechiae, which are small, pinpoint hemorrhages, can appear on the skin and are a classic sign of FES, often found in the axillary region or on the chest.
Choice D reason: Altered mental status, including confusion and drowsiness, can occur early in FES due to fat emboli traveling to the cerebral circulation.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Asking about multivitamin intake is not directly relevant to GBS, as the syndrome is not known to be caused by vitamin deficiencies or related to nutritional status.
Choice B reason: A recent influenza infection is relevant because GBS is often preceded by an infection, such as a respiratory or gastrointestinal viral infection. The immune system's response to this infection may mistakenly attack peripheral nerves, leading to GBS.
Choice C reason: While travel history is important in assessing exposure to infectious diseases, it is less specific than asking about recent infections. GBS can occur after exposure to certain viruses or bacteria, which can be contracted without overseas travel.
Choice D reason: Chronic alcohol abuse is a risk factor for various neurological conditions, but it is not a typical precursor to GBS. The syndrome is more commonly associated with immune responses to infections.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: This set of values is indicative of metabolic acidosis with respiratory compensation, which is common in chronic kidney disease due to the accumulation of acids in the blood and the lungs' attempt to compensate by retaining CO2.
Choice B reason: This choice suggests respiratory alkalosis, which is less likely in chronic kidney disease unless there is a secondary respiratory condition causing hyperventilation.
Choice C reason: This choice indicates metabolic alkalosis, which is not typical for chronic kidney disease, as the kidneys are unable to excrete acid effectively.
Choice D reason: While this set of values does indicate acidosis, the expected compensatory response in chronic kidney disease would be an elevated PaCO2, not a normal or low value.

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