A healthcare professional is assessing a client who has a fracture of the femur. Vital signs are obtained on admission and again in 2 hours. Which of the following changes in assessment should indicate to the healthcare professional that the client could be developing a serious complication?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Step 1: Increased respiratory rate from 18 to 44/min indicates potential respiratory distress, a serious complication post-fracture.
Step 2: Rapid breathing can signify hypoxemia, pulmonary embolism, or infection, requiring immediate intervention.
Step 3: Increased oral temperature and blood pressure within normal range are not as critical as respiratory distress.
Step 4: A slight increase in heart rate is common after a fracture and not indicative of a serious complication.