A client is admitted to the orthopedic unit with a fractured femur after a motorcycle accident. The client has been placed in traction until his femur can be rodded in surgery. For what early complications should the nurse monitor this client? Select all that apply.
Malunion
Compartment syndrome
Fat embolism
Deep vein thrombosis
Pulmonary emboli
Correct Answer : B,C,D,E
A. Malunion: Malunion happens when a fractured bone heals in an improper position, leading to deformity and functional impairment. While it is a concern, it typically develops over time during the healing process and is not an immediate early complication that the nurse would monitor for in the acute phase following a fracture.
B. Compartment syndrome: Compartment syndrome is a serious condition that can occur after an injury, such as a fracture. When there is increased pressure within a muscle compartment, it can lead to reduced blood flow, potentially causing tissue damage and nerve injury. Prompt recognition and intervention are crucial to prevent complications.
C. Fat embolism: Fat embolism occurs when fat particles from the bone marrow or other sources enter the bloodstream, often after a long bone fracture or major trauma. These particles can travel to the lungs and other organs, causing respiratory distress, confusion, and other symptoms. Fat embolism is a significant concern in orthopedic trauma patients and requires careful monitoring.
D. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): DVT is the formation of blood clots in deep veins, usually in the legs. Patients with fractures, especially those immobilized for extended periods, are at increased risk for DVT. If a clot dislodges and travels to the lungs, it can cause a pulmonary embolism, which is a life-threatening complication.
E. Pulmonary emboli: Pulmonary emboli occur when blood clots, often originating from DVT, travel to the lungs and block pulmonary arteries. This condition can lead to sudden difficulty breathing, chest pain, and even cardiac arrest. Pulmonary embolism is a medical emergency and requires immediate intervention.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Chronic pain - Chronic pain is a concern for the client, but addressing the underlying issue of ineffective tissue perfusion will help alleviate pain by promoting healing and reducing tissue damage.
B. Impaired skin integrity - Impaired skin integrity is a result of ineffective tissue perfusion. By addressing perfusion issues, skin integrity can be improved as tissues receive adequate oxygen and nutrients for healing.
C. Risk for injury - While clients with arterial insufficiency ulcers are at risk for injury, the immediate concern is addressing the ineffective tissue perfusion to prevent complications related to poor circulation, such as tissue necrosis and infection.
D. Ineffective tissue perfusion- Arterial insufficiency ulcers are caused by inadequate blood flow to the tissues. The priority issue for a client with an arterial insufficiency ulcer is ineffective tissue perfusion. Due to decreased blood flow, tissues do not receive enough oxygen and nutrients, leading to delayed wound healing, tissue damage, and potential complications. Interventions should focus on improving circulation, promoting vasodilation, and enhancing perfusion to facilitate wound healing and prevent further tissue damage.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Provide the client with antipyretic therapy. - Antipyretic therapy can help reduce fever, but addressing the underlying infection with antibiotics is crucial.
B. Administer antibiotics to the client. -The priority intervention for a client with acute osteomyelitis is to administer antibiotics promptly. Osteomyelitis is a severe bacterial infection of the bone, which requires aggressive antibiotic therapy to eradicate the infection. Delaying antibiotic treatment can lead to further complications and the spread of the infection.
C. Teach relaxation breathing to reduce the client's pain. - Pain management is important, but in the case of acute osteomyelitis, the priority is to eliminate the infection through antibiotics.
D. Increase the client's protein intake. - Adequate nutrition, including protein, is important for overall healing and immune function, but it is not the priority when dealing with an acute infection that requires immediate antibiotic treatment.
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