A patient has been admitted with a fractured pelvis that occurred in an auto accident just a few hours ago. The nurse notices a slight change in behavior. Which of the following clinical manifestations would lead the nurse to suspect that the patient has fat emboli that has migrated? Select all that apply.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Initial symptoms of FES are a subtle change in behavior and signs of disorientation resulting from emboli in the cerebral circulation combined with respiratory depression. There may be complaints of substernal chest pain and dyspnea accompanied by tachycardia and low-grade fever. Diaphoresis, pallor, and cyanosis become evident as respiratory function deteriorates. It would be expected that the patient have lower abdominal and back pain since they have a pelvic fracture. The normal urine output is a minimum of 30 mL/hour.

A Patient Has Been Admitted with a Fractured Pelvis That