A nurse is collecting data from a client who has a fractured left femur and is in skeletal traction. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an indication of fat emboli to report to the provider?

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 an incorrect instruction, because the client does not need to remain NPO, or nothing by mouth, before a standard EEG. The client can eat and drink normally, unless the provider instructs otherwise.

Choice B reason: This is an incorrect instruction, because the client should not take a sedative, or any other medication that can affect the brain activity, before a standard EEG. The client should take the usual medications, unless the provider instructs otherwise.

Choice C reason: This is the correct instruction, because the client should thoroughly shampoo hair prior to the EEG. The client should wash the hair with a mild shampoo and rinse well, without using any conditioner, gel, spray, or other hair products. This can help remove any oil, dirt, or residue that can interfere with the placement and function of the electrodes.

Choice D reason: This is an incorrect instruction, because the client should not take an additional dose of anticonvulsant medication before a standard EEG. The client should take the regular dose of anticonvulsant medication, unless the provider instructs otherwise.