ATI Pediatrics Test Bank Related

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Olympic gymnast Ms. Slovenski sufferd a great fall and suffered a great fall and fractured her femur. Approximately after 20 hours in the hospital she became dyspneic, tachypneic, and with scattered crackles in her lung fields. She is coughing up large amounts of thick, white sputum. The nurse correctly interprets this as:

  • A. respiratory compromise related to inhalation of smoke
  • B. pneumonia related to prolonged bedrest
  • C. fat embolism syndrome related to femur fracture
  • D. hypovolemic shock related to multiple trauma
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The symptoms described in the scenario - dyspnea, tachypnea, crackles in lung fields, and coughing up thick, white sputum - are indicative of fat embolism syndrome (FES), which occurs as a complication of long bone fractures like the femur fracture in this case. FES is characterized by the release of fat droplets into the bloodstream, which can then travel to the lungs and cause respiratory distress. The onset of symptoms typically occurs within 24-72 hours after the initial injury, making it a likely cause for Ms. Slovenski's condition. This is a medical emergency that requires prompt recognition and intervention to prevent further complications. The other options (A, B, and D) do not align with the clinical picture presented in the scenario and are less likely causes of her current symptoms.