The most important complication for the practical nurse (PN) to observe for when caring for a client who had a long bone fracture repaired yesterday is:

Fat embolism.

Urinary retention.

Nonunion.

Muscular spasms.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Choice A reason: Fat embolism syndrome (FES) is a serious complication that can occur after a long bone fracture. It happens when fat droplets from the bone marrow enter the bloodstream and travel to the lungs, brain, or other organs, causing a range of symptoms. These can include respiratory distress, cerebral symptoms like confusion or agitation, and petechial rash. The practical nurse must be vigilant for early signs of fat embolism, such as changes in mental status, tachypnea, and hypoxia, as timely intervention is critical to prevent severe outcomes. Monitoring the client's oxygen saturation, respiratory rate, and level of consciousness is essential in detecting this potentially life-threatening condition.
Choice B reason: Urinary retention can be a concern postoperatively due to anesthesia and immobility. While it is important to monitor urinary output and ensure the client is voiding adequately, urinary retention is not as immediately life-threatening as a fat embolism. The practical nurse should still assess bladder function and encourage measures to promote voiding, such as adequate hydration and mobility. However, this complication does not take precedence over the potential for a fat embolism in the early postoperative period following a long bone fracture repair.
Choice C reason: Nonunion refers to the failure of the fracture to heal properly, which can lead to chronic pain and functional impairment. It is a significant complication that requires attention, but it typically develops over a longer period rather than immediately postoperatively. The practical nurse should monitor for signs of nonunion, such as persistent pain and lack of healing on follow-up X-rays. However, this is not the most urgent concern in the immediate postoperative period when compared to the risk of a fat embolism.
Choice D reason: Muscular spasms can occur after a fracture as the muscles around the injury site contract to protect and stabilize the affected area. While muscle spasms can be painful and affect the client's comfort and mobility, they are generally not life-threatening. The practical nurse should address muscle spasms through pain management strategies and physical therapy, but this complication is not as critical as the potential for a fat embolism in the immediate postoperative period.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason: Red meats are typically high in sodium, especially if they are processed or cured. Encouraging the consumption of red meats would not be appropriate for a client with low sodium levels.
Choice B reason: Salted crackers are high in sodium and should be avoided for a client with low sodium levels. Consuming salted crackers would further decrease the sodium level, which is not desirable in this case.
Choice C reason: Fresh fruits are naturally low in sodium and are a good choice for a client with low sodium levels. They provide essential vitamins and nutrients without adding excess sodium to the diet.
Choice D reason: Green vegetables are also low in sodium and are a healthy option for a client with low sodium levels. However, fresh fruits are often more palatable and easier to incorporate into the diet, making them a better choice for encouraging the client to eat.

A. Do not exercise the upper body on the day of the procedure. B. Do not use underarm deodorant on the day of the procedure. C. Avoid taking aspirin for one week prior to the procedure. D. Avoid eating or drinking 6 hours prior to the procedure.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason: There is no specific requirement to avoid upper body exercise on the day of a mammogram. While vigorous exercise might cause some temporary muscle discomfort, it does not impact the results of the mammogram. The primary concern is ensuring clear imaging of the breast tissue, not the effects of exercise.
Choice B reason: Clients are instructed not to use underarm deodorant on the day of a mammogram because deodorants, antiperspirants, powders, or lotions can contain metallic particles that may appear on the mammogram images as white spots. These spots can be mistaken for calcifications, leading to potential misinterpretation of the results or the need for additional imaging. Ensuring the client avoids using these products helps achieve the clearest possible images for accurate diagnosis.
Choice C reason: Avoiding aspirin for one week prior to a mammogram is not a standard instruction. Aspirin can affect blood clotting, and such instructions are typically given before surgical procedures rather than imaging tests. There is no direct impact of aspirin on the mammogram process or results.
Choice D reason: There is no requirement to avoid eating or drinking for 6 hours before a mammogram. This instruction is more relevant for procedures that involve anesthesia or sedation, where an empty stomach is necessary to reduce the risk of aspiration. Mammograms do not involve these risks, and clients can eat and drink as usual.

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The most important complication for the practical nurse (PN) to observe for when caring for a client who had a long bone fracture repaired yesterday is:

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client with Crohn's disease has a serum sodium level of 130 mEq/L (130 mmol/L). Which foods should the practical nurse (PN) encourage the client to eat? Reference Range: Sodium: 136 to 145 mEq/L (136 to 145 mmol/L)

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

The practical nurse (PN) is preparing a client for a mammogram. Which instruction should the PN provide the client?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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A client with psoriasis reports an increase in symptoms. Which action should the practical nurse (PN) implement?

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