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?
Bone demineralization
Fat embolism syndrome
Muscle atrophy
Renal calculi
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is []
Explanation
- Atrial fibrillation is characterized by an irregular, often rapid heart rate that can lead to poor blood flow. The client's symptoms of a "fluttering" and "racing" heartbeat, dizziness, and shortness of breath, along with the irregular cardiac rhythm and unclear P waves, are indicative of atrial fibrillation.
- Obtaining a 12 lead ECG is essential to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the arrhythmia.
- Administering an anticoagulant is crucial to prevent thromboembolic events, such as stroke, which are common complications of atrial fibrillation.
- Monitoring for manifestations of stroke is important because atrial fibrillation increases the risk of stroke.
- PT/INR should be monitored to ensure the effectiveness and safety of anticoagulant therapy.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. While nausea and weakness could be related to a variety of factors, including gastrointestinal upset, requesting an antiemetic is not the first priority. The nurse must first assess the client's condition to determine if there is a more urgent issue, such as digoxin toxicity.
B. A dietitian consult may be helpful later, but it is not the first action. The nurse should first assess the client’s current physical condition.
C. The first action should be to check the client's vital signs. Nausea and weakness are common symptoms of digoxin toxicity, which can cause bradycardia, arrhythmias, and other life-threatening complications. Checking the vital signs, particularly the heart rate, is critical to assess if the client is experiencing digoxin toxicity.
D. While resting might help the client feel better, it does not address the potential underlying cause of the symptoms, such as digoxin toxicity, which should be evaluated first.
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