A nurse is teaching a client who has a fractured femur about fat emboli syndrome. Which of the following findings should the nurse include as a manifestation of a fat embolism?
Paresthesia distal to the fracture
Fever
Swollen calf
Petechiae on the chest
The Correct Answer is D
D. Petechiae, which are small red or purple spots caused by bleeding under the skin, are a classic manifestation of fat embolism syndrome. They typically appear on the upper chest, axilla (armpit), and conjunctiva of the eyes. Petechiae result from the occlusion of small blood vessels by fat globules, leading to microvascular bleeding.
A Paresthesia distal to the fracture site is not a typical manifestation of fat embolism syndrome. Instead, paresthesia may suggest nerve compression or injury related to the fracture itself rather than fat emboli.
B Fever is not a specific manifestation of fat embolism syndrome. While fever can occur with various types of infections or inflammatory conditions, it is not a hallmark symptom of fat embolism.
C Swelling of the calf can occur with conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which is a potential complication of lower limb fractures. However, it is not a typical manifestation of fat embolism syndrome.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
A. Assessing the temperature of the affected extremity is important because changes in temperature could indicate circulation problems, which are a concern with traction. Assessing temperature helps in detecting any potential issues early on.
C. Skin integrity is crucial as traction can put pressure on the skin, potentially leading to pressure ulcers or skin breakdown. Regular examination helps in detecting any signs of skin irritation or breakdown early so that appropriate interventions can be initiated.
D. Traction can sometimes impede circulation to the affected limb, leading to complications such as compartment syndrome. Monitoring peripheral pulses helps in detecting any circulation problems promptly.
B. Adjusting the prescribed weights is not typically within the nurse's scope of practice, as the weights are determined by the physician and should not be altered without specific orders.
E. Positioning the weights against the foot of the bed is incorrect; they should hang freely to maintain effective traction.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
D. Appendectomy is a common surgical procedure to remove the appendix and is considered a moderate surgical intervention. Early ambulation is generally encouraged for patients after appendectomy to prevent complications such as pneumonia, deep vein thrombosis, and ileus.
B. Knee replacement surgery is a major orthopedic procedure that requires early mobilization and rehabilitation to prevent complications such as blood clots, joint stiffness, and muscle weakness. However, the client needs more time before ambulation is initiated
A. Tonsillectomy is a relatively minor surgical procedure that typically does not significantly impact a patient's mobility or ability to ambulate. The patient who had a tonsillectomy one week ago is likely well-recovered and may not require immediate prioritization for ambulation.
C. Hernia repair surgery is typically considered a moderate surgical procedure. While early mobilization is generally beneficial for patients recovering from hernia repair surgery, it may not be as urgent as for patients undergoing major orthopedic surgeries like knee replacement.
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