How it Works
Try Naxlex NCLEX-RN (Free-Trial)

The nurse plans of care for a patient who has a fractured femur. During the 24 to 48 hours after the fracture, the nurse monitors the patient for the development of which complication?

A.

Bone demineralization

B.

Fat embolism syndrome

C.

Muscle atrophy

D.

Renal calculi

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A. Bone demineralization occurs over a longer period of immobilization and is not a primary concern within the first 24 to 48 hours following a fracture.  
B. Fat embolism syndrome (FES) is a serious complication that can occur within 24 to 48 hours after a long bone fracture, especially a femur fracture. Fat droplets from the bone marrow can enter the bloodstream, leading to embolism in the lungs, brain, or heart, causing symptoms such as respiratory distress, confusion, and petechial rash.  
C. Muscle atrophy is a concern with prolonged immobility, but it develops over a longer period of time, not within the first 24 to 48 hours after a fracture.  
D. Renal calculi (kidney stones) are more commonly associated with long-term immobility or dehydration, not an immediate complication following a fracture.


Get 100+ Naxlex Exit Exams for $79 Try Naxlex NCLEX-RN (14 Day Free-Trial)

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Free Nursing Study Resources

Related Questions

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Sodium bicarbonate is typically used in cases of metabolic acidosis, especially during prolonged resuscitation efforts. It is not the first-line medication for symptomatic bradycardia.
B. Magnesium is used in cases of torsades de pointes or other arrhythmias associated with low magnesium levels. It is not indicated for symptomatic bradycardia.
C. Epinephrine is used in cases of cardiac arrest to stimulate the heart and improve perfusion, but it is not the first-line treatment for symptomatic bradycardia.
D. Atropine is the first-line medication for symptomatic bradycardia. It works by blocking the parasympathetic effects on the heart, increasing heart rate. This is especially useful in bradycardia that is causing symptoms like hypotension or altered mental status.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Administering mannitol (Osmitrol) is an appropriate intervention to reduce increased ICP, but it is not the priority in this situation. The priority is to ensure that the ventriculostomy is functioning correctly, which involves preventing infection through aseptic technique.
B. Strict aseptic technique with all procedural dressing changes is the priority intervention. A ventriculostomy is an invasive procedure that introduces the risk of infection, which can significantly worsen the patient's condition. Preventing infection is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the ventriculostomy and ensuring accurate ICP measurements.
C. While monitoring for changes in ICP related to leaking CSF is important, it is secondary to preventing infection, which can lead to severe complications.
D. Maintaining hyper-oxygenation through a ventilator may be necessary if the patient is experiencing respiratory distress or hypoxia, but it is not the first priority when managing a ventriculostomy. The primary concern is the prevention of infection and ensuring accurate ICP measurements.

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

Register