The nurse is caring for a patient who sustained a fractured femur from a motor vehicle accident 1 day ago.The patient is anxious,restless,appears short of breath,and requests pain medication for chest discomfort.Which nursing intervention is priority?
A)Administer pain medication as ordered.
B)Increase intravenous fluids.
C)Evaluate the patient's oxygen saturation.
D)Help the patient assume a more comfortable position.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's symptoms of anxiety, restlessness, shortness of breath and chest discomfort may indicate a potential pulmonary embolism, which is a serious complication of femur fracture. Therefore, evaluating the patient's oxygen saturation is a priority to determine if there is adequate oxygenation to meet the body's needs. Pain medication may be necessary, but addressing potential respiratory compromise takes priority. Intravenous fluids may also be needed, but are not the priority in this situation. Helping the patient assume a more comfortable position is not likely to address the underlying issue and may not be possible given the fracture.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient Who Sustained a Fractured