A nurse is caring for a client who has a femur fracture. The nurse suspects that the client has fat embolism syndrome. Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an early manifestation of fat embolism syndrome?
Hypoxemia
Headache
Petechiae
Precordial chest pain
The Correct Answer is A
A. Hypoxemia is an early sign of fat embolism syndrome due to the presence of fat globules in the pulmonary circulation.
B. Headache can be associated with hypoxemia but is not as specific or immediate as hypoxemia itself.
C. Petechiae, while a classic sign, usually appear later in the progression of fat embolism syndrome.
D. Precordial chest pain may occur but is not typically the first sign; hypoxemia is usually noted first.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["C","E"]
Explanation
A. An increase in hemoglobin does not indicate infection; it may indicate dehydration or improved oxygenation.
B. The absence of ketones in urine is not related to infection status.
C. An increase in band neutrophils, known as a "left shift," is a sign of infection as the body releases immature neutrophils in response to infection.
D. A negative leukocyte esterase in urine indicates no presence of white blood cells in the urine, suggesting no urinary infection.
E. An elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is a nonspecific marker of inflammation and can indicate infection or other inflammatory processes.
Correct Answer is ["A","C","E","F"]
Explanation
A. Heart rate: The increased heart rate (108/min) may indicate a developing complication such as hypovolemia or pain. This requires monitoring as it could signal deteriorating status.
B. Oxygen saturation: The SpO₂ level is stable at 96%, which is within an acceptable range and does not indicate an immediate concern.
C. Edema: The increase in sacral and iliac region edema (2+) from day 1 to day 2 suggests worsening swelling and possible fluid accumulation, which could be affecting blood flow and leading to circulatory issues.
D. Temperature: The temperature remains within a normal range, so it does not require immediate intervention.
E. Urine color: Dark, reddish-brown urine suggests possible bleeding or rhabdomyolysis, both of which require immediate follow-up to prevent further complications and assess kidney function.
F. Pedal pulses: The change to 1+ pedal pulses bilaterally and the delayed capillary refill time (6 seconds) indicate reduced perfusion to the lower extremities, which may suggest compromised circulation or increased edema affecting blood flow.
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
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.