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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D"]
Explanation
B. Minimal edema (swelling) around the pin insertion site is an expected finding in clients with skeletal traction. Some degree of swelling may occur due to tissue trauma and the presence of foreign objects (such as the traction pins) within the soft tissues.
C. Slight pain or discomfort at the pin insertion site is common in clients with skeletal traction. The presence of traction pins can cause irritation or discomfort, especially during movement or weight- bearing activities.
A. Elastic bandages are not typically used to secure traction ropes in skeletal traction. Traction is usually maintained using specialized devices or weights attached to the traction ropes.
D.A small amount of clear, watery drainage is normal. This is the body's natural response to injury.
E. Movement of the pin at the insertion site is not an expected finding and may indicate inadequate stabilization or loosening of the pin. The pins should be securely anchored to the bone to maintain proper traction and stability.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
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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