The nurse is contributing to the plan of care for a patient who has a right fractured femur. What intervention would be essential to include in the plan of care to prevent fat emboli?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The most essential intervention to prevent fat emboli in a patient with a fractured femur is to maintain immobilization of the affected leg. This helps prevent further fragmenting of the bone and subsequent release of fat into the bloodstream which can then lead to fat emboli. Decreasing dietary consumption of fats and performing passive range of motion on the affected leg are also important interventions but not as essential as maintaining immobilization. Encouraging coughing and deep breathing hourly is important to prevent respiratory complications but not specifically related to preventing fat emboli.

The Nurse Is Contributing to the Plan of Care for a Patient