Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 69%
Simulated
A nurse is caring for a client who has multiple long bone fractures caused by a motor-vehicle crash that happened 24 hours ago. The client tells the nurse he is short of breath and is experiencing chest pain. The nurse should assess the client further for which of the following potential complications?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
Fat embolism syndrome is a serious complication following long bone fractures, where fat globules enter the bloodstream and cause respiratory distress and chest pain.