Which assessment finding indicates to the nurse that the client who sustained a fractured femur in a motor vehicle accident is experiencing fat emboli syndrome?
Petechiae on the chest.
An edematous calf.
Elevated temperature.
Paresthesia distal to the fracture.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason
Petechiae on the chest are a classic sign of fat emboli syndrome (FES). FES is a rare but serious complication that can occur after a long bone fracture, such as a femur fracture. The petechiae result from small fat droplets that travel to the skin's capillaries and cause pinpoint hemorrhages. This symptom is part of the classic triad for FES, which includes respiratory distress, neurological symptoms, and a petechial rash.
Choice B Reason
While an edematous calf may be a concern for deep vein thrombosis or other complications following a fracture, it is not a specific indicator of FES. Edema in the calf could be due to various reasons, including local trauma from the fracture itself or immobilization.
Choice C Reason
An elevated temperature can be associated with many post-injury complications, including infection or inflammatory response. However, it is not specific to FES. While patients with FES may present with fever, it is not one of the primary diagnostic criteria.
Choice D Reason
Paresthesia distal to the fracture could indicate nerve damage or compartment syndrome, which are important to assess in a patient with a femur fracture. However, paresthesia is not a specific sign of FES. The neurological symptoms associated with FES are more generalized and often include confusion or altered mental status.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice a reason:
Avoiding crossing the legs while sitting is crucial after a total hip replacement to prevent dislocation of the new joint. Crossing the legs can put undue pressure on the hip joint and may lead to misalignment or increased strain during the healing process.
Choice b reason:
Eliminating Vitamin K from the diet is not typically recommended after a total hip replacement. Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting, and maintaining a consistent intake is important, especially if the client is on anticoagulant therapy to prevent deep vein thrombosis. Sudden changes in Vitamin K intake can affect the efficacy of anticoagulants like warfarin.
Choice c reason:
Following a home exercise program is an essential part of recovery after a total hip replacement. Exercises help strengthen the muscles around the new joint, improve flexibility, and increase range of motion. It's important that these exercises are done regularly and as instructed by a physical therapist.
Choice d reason:
Using a raised toilet seat after hip replacement surgery helps to prevent excessive flexion at the hip, which can risk dislocating the new joint. It also makes it easier for the client to sit down and stand up with less strain on the hip.
Choice e reason:
Increasing high-impact activities is not recommended after a total hip replacement, especially in the early stages of recovery. High-impact activities can put excessive stress on the new joint and may lead to complications. Low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, or cycling are generally more appropriate.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice a reason:
A cream to soothe itching may be used if the client is experiencing pruritus, which can sometimes accompany biliary issues due to bile salts in the skin. However, pruritus is not a direct symptom of biliary colic, which is characterized primarily by pain.
Choice b reason:
Pain medication is the appropriate treatment for biliary colic. Biliary colic is caused by the temporary blockage of the bile duct by a gallstone, leading to intense pain in the upper right abdomen or the center of the abdomen. Pain relief is typically achieved with anti-inflammatory drugs or antispasmodics, and in some cases, opioids may be necessary.
Choice c reason:
An antibiotic would be prescribed if there was an infection, such as cholecystitis or cholangitis. Biliary colic itself does not necessarily indicate an infection unless accompanied by other symptoms such as fever or elevated white blood cell count.
Choice d reason:
A laxative is not typically used to treat biliary colic. While laxatives can help relieve constipation, biliary colic is a result of gallstones obstructing the bile duct, not bowel movement issues.

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