A nurse is teaching a client who has a fractured femur about fat emboli syndrome. Which of the following findings should the nurse include as a manifestation of a fat embolism?

A. The heart rate has increased from 92/min on Day 1 to 108/min on Day 2. This significant increase warrants immediate follow-up as it may indicate pain, anxiety, or an underlying physiological issue such as hemorrhage, infection, or cardiac complications.

D. The temperature has increased from 36.4°C (97.5°F) on Day 1 to 37.2°C (98.9°F) on Day 2. While this increase is within a relatively normal range, it is approaching a fever range (> 38°C or 100.4°F) and warrants further evaluation to determine if there is an underlying infection or inflammation.

B. The oxygen saturation remains relatively stable, from 95% on Day 1 to 96% on Day 2. While it is important to monitor oxygen saturation, the minimal change does not indicate an immediate concern. However, it should still be monitored closely for any further decrease.

C. Edema is not directly mentioned in the provided data. While edema can be indicative of various health issues, there is no evidence in the given information to suggest its presence or severity as a concern requiring immediate follow-up.

E. Urine color is not provided in the given data. While changes in urine color can indicate dehydration or other health issues, it is not mentioned in the assessment findings and therefore not a factor for immediate follow-up based on the information provided.

F Pedal pulses were noted as +2 on Day 1, indicating that they were present and normal. Unless there is a significant change in pedal pulses or signs of vascular compromise, such as decreased or absent pulses, there is no immediate need for follow-up based on the given information.

B. Repositioning the client regularly is an important intervention to prevent pressure ulcers and pressure points, especially when the client is immobilized in traction. Repositioning helps distribute pressure evenly on different areas of the body, reducing the risk of tissue ischemia and pressure-related injuries around the edges of the splint.

A. Lotions or moisturizers can increase the risk of skin breakdown and infection, especially when applied under medical devices such as splints or casts.

C. Removing the weights for a few minutes each hour is not necessary to prevent pressure points around the edges of the splint. Balanced skeletal traction is typically applied to maintain continuous traction force on the fractured femur for therapeutic purposes.

D. Applying a foot plate to the bed is not directly related to preventing pressure points around the edges of the splint. Foot plates are typically used to prevent foot drop and maintain proper alignment of the foot and ankle joints.