A nurse is caring for a client who has multiple long bone fractures caused by a motor-vehicle crash that happened 24 hr ago. The client tells the nurse he is short of breath and experiencing chest pain. The nurse should assess the client further for which of the following potential complications?

Hypovolemic shock

Fat embolism syndrome

Venous thromboembolism

Compartment syndrome

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

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 the bloodstream 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.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Palpating the femoral pulse is an essential part of assessing the neurovascular status of a client with a femur fracture. The presence and strength of the femoral pulse can indicate adequate blood flow to the lower extremity.

B. While measuring the circumference of the thigh can provide some information about swelling or changes in the size of the limb, it does not directly assess neurovascular status.

C. Monitoring the client's calf for edema is important for assessing for signs of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or venous insufficiency, but it is not the primary technique for assessing neurovascular status.

D. Instructing the client to wiggle his toes is a way to assess motor function and nerve function, which is part of the neurovascular assessment. However, it is not the initial step in assessing neurovascular status in a client with an unrepaired femur fracture. The femoral pulse should be assessed first to ensure adequate blood flow.

A. Cool extremities B. Decreased radial pulse C. Positive Chvostek's sign D. Positive Phalen's sign

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Cool extremities are not typically associated with carpal tunnel syndrome. They may be a sign of poor circulation, but this is not a specific finding for carpal tunnel syndrome.

B. Decreased radial pulse is not a characteristic finding of carpal tunnel syndrome. It may indicate issues with blood flow to the hand but is not specific to this condition.

C. Positive Chvostek's sign is associated with hypocalcemia and involves facial muscle twitching when the facial nerve is tapped. It is not related to carpal tunnel syndrome.

D. Positive Phalen's sign is a characteristic finding in carpal tunnel syndrome. It involves tingling or numbness in the median nerve distribution (usually thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger) when the wrist is flexed for 60 seconds.

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A nurse is caring for a client who has multiple long bone fractures caused by a motor-vehicle crash that happened 24 hr ago. The client tells the nurse he is short of breath and experiencing chest pain. The nurse should assess the client further for which of the following potential complications?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is caring for a client who has an unrepaired femur fracture of the midshaft. Which of the following techniques should the nurse use when performing an assessment of the client's neurovascular status?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A nurse is assessing a client who has carpal tunnel syndrome. The nurse should expect which of the following findings?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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