Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 91%
Simulated
A nurse is caring for a client who has multiple long bone fractures caused by a motor-vehicle crash that happened 24 hr ago. The client tells the nurse he is short of breath and experiencing chest pain. The nurse should assess the client further for which of the following potential complications?
Correct answer
C
Rationale
Fat embolism syndrome is a serious complication of long bone fractures, presenting with respiratory distress and chest pain within 24-72 hours post-injury, matching the client's symptoms and timing.