Practice Question
A nurse is performing a shift assessment on an elderly client who is recovering after surgery for a femur fracture. The client reports chest pain. The RN notes an increased heart rate and respiratory rate. The nurse further notes that the client is febrile and hypoxic, coughing and producing large amounts of thick, white sputum. The nurse recognizes this is a medical emergency and calls for assistance, acknowledging that this client is likely demonstrating symptoms of what complication?
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Correct Answer:
Fat embolism syndrome
Rationale:
🔴 Fat embolism syndrome (FES) is a serious complication following long bone fractures (such as the femur).
🔴 Classic signs include respiratory distress (hypoxia, tachypnea), tachycardia, fever, and mental status changes, often occurring within 24–72 hours post-injury or surgery.
🔴 The thick, white sputum and hypoxia indicate pulmonary involvement due to fat globules obstructing pulmonary capillaries, causing an inflammatory response.
🔴 Immediate intervention with oxygen therapy, respiratory support, and stabilization is crucial to prevent further deterioration.
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This question is from Chapter 42 Musculoskeletal Trauma N3661 EXAM 3 SPRING 2025 which contains 94 questions.
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From Exam
Chapter 42 Musculoskeletal Trauma N3661 EXAM 3 SPRING 2025
94 Questions
View Full Exam Start PracticingQuestion Details
- Category: RN Nursing Exam(s)
- Subcategory: ATI Exam(s)
- Domain: RN ATI MedSurg
- Answer Choices: 4