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 C
Explanation
C. Asking the client to wiggle their toes assesses motor function and nerve integrity. In a neurovascular assessment, intact nerve function is crucial, as impaired nerve function can manifest as weakness or paralysis.
A. This technique assesses the circulation in the lower extremity by checking for the presence, strength, and symmetry of the pulse. However, it assesses for vascular component proximal to the fracture.
B. Edema in the calf muscle is mostly used as a marker for deep venous thrombosis. Although it can affect circulation. It may be a late sign.
D. Significant differences in thigh circumference between the affected and unaffected limb may indicate vascular compromise or other issues. This is however, a late sign of vascular compromise.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
B. Methamphetamine use can cause significant cardiovascular effects, including tachycardia, hypertension, and arrhythmias. Given the patient's presentation with an irregular heart rate and tachycardia, continuous cardiac monitoring through an ECG is essential to assess for any life-threatening arrhythmias or other cardiac complications.
A. Reorientation is important for patients who are disoriented, but in the case of a patient who has admitted to using methamphetamine and is exhibiting signs of agitation and tachycardia, the priority is to ensure the patient's safety and stabilize their condition.
C. While providing a calm environment is beneficial for patients who are agitated, it is not the most important action in this scenario.
D. Obtaining a comprehensive health history, including prior drug use, is important for understanding the patient's background and potential risk factors. However, in this acute situation where the patient is disoriented, agitated, and exhibiting signs of cardiovascular distress, the priority is to address the immediate medical needs and stabilize the patient's condition.
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