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 C
Explanation
C. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is a blood test that measures the rate at which red blood cells settle in a tube of blood over time. ESR levels are commonly elevated in inflammatory conditions such as RA.
A. Rheumatoid factor (RF) is an autoantibody commonly found in individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, monitoring RF levels is not typically used to evaluate the effectiveness of aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in managing RA symptoms.
B. ANA levels are not typically monitored to evaluate the effectiveness of aspirin or NSAIDs in managing RA symptoms.
D. Monitoring WBC count is important for assessing overall health and detecting infections but it is not specific to evaluating the effectiveness of aspirin or NSAIDs in managing RA symptoms.
Correct Answer is ["A"]
Explanation
A. Protein-calorie malnutrition can lead to decreased tissue integrity and delayed wound healing, increasing the risk of pressure ulcer development due to compromised nutritional status.
B. Diabetes, especially when uncontrolled, can lead to poor circulation and neuropathy, which increases the risk of pressure ulcers. Hyperglycemia can also impair wound healing and compromise the immune response, further contributing to the risk.
C. Edema increases pressure on the skin and underlying tissues, impairing circulation and increasing the risk of pressure ulcers, especially in areas where there is constant pressure or friction against surfaces.
D. A client with postoperative delirium is not necessarily at risk of delirium.
E. A client post cardiac catheterization and already ambulating is not at risk of pressure sores
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
