Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 79%
Simulated
A nurse is assessing a client who is 24 hours postoperative following an open reduction and internal fixation to repair a fracture of the femur. Which of the following assessment findings is an early manifestation of fat embolism syndrome (FES)?
Correct answer
B
Rationale
Dyspnea, or difficulty breathing, is one of the earliest signs of FES due to fat globules obstructing pulmonary vessels.