After being hospitalized for 3 days with a right femur fracture,a patient suddenly develops shortness of breath and tachypnea. The patient tells the nurse,"I feel like I am going to die!" Which action should the nurse take first?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's clinical manifestations and history are consistent with a pulmonary embolism,and the nurse's first action should be to ensure adequate oxygenation. The nurse should offer reassurance to the patient,but meeting the physiologic need for O₂ is a higher priority. The health care provider should be notified after the O₂ is started and pulse oximetry obtained concerning suspected fat embolism or venous thromboembolism.

After Being Hospitalized for 3 Days with a Right Femur