A patient, diagnosed with a fractured left femur, begins complaining of chest pain, shortness of breath, and a rash on his chest. What complication should the nurse suspect at this time?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms of chest pain, shortness of breath, and a rash on the chest are indicative of fat embolism syndrome, which can occur in patients with long bone fractures such as a fractured femur. It is caused by the disruption of fatty tissue, which can enter the bloodstream and travel to other parts of the body, including the lungs, causing respiratory distress, and skin, causing a rash.

A Patient, Diagnosed with a Fractured Left Femur, Begins Complaining