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: This statement is incorrect. Synthetic casts typically dry much faster than plaster casts. Plaster casts can take 24 to 48 hours to fully harden, while synthetic casts made from materials like fiberglass or plastic can harden within a few hours.
Choice B reason: This is the correct statement. Synthetic casts are indeed lighter than plaster casts. They are made from materials like fiberglass, which is lighter than the traditional plaster of Paris used in plaster casts.
Choice C reason: This statement is incorrect. Plaster casts are generally heavier than synthetic casts. The weight of a cast can be an important consideration, especially for children or for those who may have difficulty managing a heavier cast.
Choice D reason: This statement is incorrect. Both plaster and synthetic casts require specialized equipment for application, but it is not specific to plaster casts. The application involves similar steps for both types, including the use of a stockinette, padding, and then the casting material itself.
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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