A nurse is caring for a male client who is undergoing screening tests for atherosclerosis. Which of the following laboratory findings should the nurse identify as an increased risk for this disorder?

Choice A reason: This is an incorrect finding, because ecchymosis of the thigh, or bruising, is not a sign of fat emboli, but a sign of bleeding or hematoma formation due to the fracture or the traction. The nurse should monitor the size and color of the ecchymosis and report any changes to the provider.

Choice B reason: This is an incorrect finding, because serous drainage at the pin site, or clear fluid, is not a sign of fat emboli, but a sign of normal healing or infection. The nurse should assess the amount, color, and odor of the drainage and report any signs of infection, such as purulent drainage, redness, swelling, or pain, to the provider.

Choice C reason: This is the correct finding, because chest petechiae, or small red spots on the chest, are a sign of fat emboli, which are a rare but serious complication of long bone fractures. Fat emboli occur when fat globules from the bone marrow enter the bloodstream and travel to the lungs, causing respiratory distress, hypoxia, and pulmonary edema. The nurse should report any signs of fat emboli, such as chest petechiae, dyspnea, tachypnea, tachycardia, fever, or confusion, to the provider.

Choice D reason: This is an incorrect finding, because muscle spasms in the left leg, or involuntary contractions of the muscles, are not a sign of fat emboli, but a sign of pain, inflammation, or nerve injury due to the fracture or the traction. The nurse should administer analgesics and muscle relaxants as prescribed, and provide comfort measures, such as massage, ice, or elevation, to the client.

Choice A reason: This is the correct data, because blood glucose using a glucometer can help diagnose and monitor the client's condition, which is likely diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). DKA is a serious complication of diabetes mellitus, characterized by high blood glucose, ketones in the urine, and acidosis in the blood. Fruity breath odor, dry mouth, and extreme thirst are common signs of DKA.

Choice B reason: This is an irrelevant data, because pupillary reaction to light has no relation to the client's condition, which is likely DKA. Pupillary reaction to light can help assess the client's neurological status and possible brain injury.

Choice C reason: This is an irrelevant data, because deep tendon reflexes have no relation to the client's condition, which is likely DKA. Deep tendon reflexes can help assess the client's neuromuscular function and possible spinal cord injury.

Choice D reason: This is a relevant data, but not the first one. Liver function laboratory values can help assess the client's hepatic function and possible liver damage, which can be a complication of DKA. However, blood glucose using a glucometer is more urgent and specific for the diagnosis and management of DKA.