A patient diagnosed with a fractured left femur complains of chest pain, shortness of breath, and a rash on the chest. What complication should the nurse suspect?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms of chest pain, shortness of breath, and rash on the chest are indicative of fat embolism syndrome, which occurs when fat globules enter the bloodstream and can cause respiratory and cardiovascular symptoms. Fractured bones, particularly the femur, are a common cause of this syndrome. Deep vein thrombosis, compartment syndrome, and DIC may also occur as complications of a fractured femur but would not typically present with the same symptoms as seen in fat embolism syndrome.

A Patient Diagnosed with a Fractured Left Femur Complains of Chest