A nurse is teaching a client who has a pelvic fracture about the manifestations of fat embolism syndrome. The nurse should include which of the following findings as an early manifestation?
Hypertension
Swollen calf
Tachypnea
Bradycardia
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason:
Hypertension is not typically an early manifestation of fat embolism syndrome (FES). FES is more commonly associated with hypoxemia, which can lead to hypotension rather than hypertension².
Choice B reason:
While a swollen calf may indicate deep vein thrombosis, it is not an early sign of FES. FES primarily affects the lungs and neurological systems early on, rather than causing localized swelling such as in a calf².
Choice C reason:
Tachypnea, or rapid breathing, is indeed an early sign of FES. This symptom usually develops before others and is due to the fat globules causing respiratory distress by blocking the pulmonary microcirculation²³⁴.
Choice D reason:
Bradycardia, or a slower than normal heart rate, is not an early sign of FES. Instead, patients may experience tachycardia as a response to hypoxemia and respiratory distress².
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: The use of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) is indicated for anemia due to chemotherapy¹. However, the client's hemoglobin (Hgb) level is 12.1 g/dL, which is within the normal range (normal: 12-15.5 g/dL for women). Therefore, administering an ESA is not indicated based on the Hgb level provided.
Choice B reason: A diet with increased protein can be beneficial for patients undergoing chemotherapy as it helps in tissue repair and immune system function. However, the client's albumin level is 4.5 g/dL, which falls within the normal range (normal: 3.4-5.4 g/dL), suggesting adequate protein intake. Thus, there is no indication that the client requires an increased protein diet based on the albumin level provided.
Choice C reason: The client's white blood cell (WBC) count is 1,400/mm³, which is below the normal range (normal: 4,500-11,000/mm³). This condition, known as leukopenia, significantly increases the risk of infection³. Therefore, the nurse should prioritize monitoring for signs of infection and implementing infection control measures.
Choice D reason: The client's platelet count is 170,000/mm³, which is within the normal range (normal: 150,000-450,000/mm³). Although cisplatin can cause thrombocytopenia, the current platelet count does not indicate an increased risk for bleeding⁴. Therefore, this choice is not correct based on the platelet count provided.
Correct Answer is ["B","C"]
Explanation
Choice A reason:
A temperature of 37.2°C (99°F) is slightly elevated but not necessarily indicative of sepsis. A heart rate of 88/min is within normal limits (60-100/min). This client's signs do not strongly suggest sepsis.
Choice B reason:
A heart rate of 132/min and a respiratory rate of 30/min are both elevated, which can be signs of sepsis. Sepsis can cause an increase in heart rate (tachycardia) and respiratory rate (tachypnea) as the body attempts to maintain adequate blood flow and oxygenation during a systemic infection.
Choice C reason:
A decrease in the level of consciousness combined with a heart rate greater than 130/min could indicate sepsis, as confusion or changes in mental status are common symptoms when the body is fighting a severe infection.
Choice D reason:
Bradypnea, or abnormally slow breathing, is not typically associated with sepsis, which more commonly causes rapid breathing. A WBC count of 10,000/mm³ is at the upper limit of the normal range and does not necessarily indicate sepsis without other symptoms.
Choice E reason:
A temperature of 36°C (96.8°F) is on the lower end of the normal body temperature range and does not suggest fever, which is a common sign of sepsis. A respiratory rate of 16/min is within the normal range (12-20/min) and does not indicate sepsis.
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