A young patient is being treated for a femoral fracture suffered in a snowboarding accident. The nurse's most recent assessment reveals that the patient is uncharacteristically confused

Question

What diagnostic test should be performed on this patient?
A) Electrolyte assessment
B) Electrocardiogram
C) Arterial blood gases
D) Abdominal ultrasound

Answer 1

Ans: C
Feedback:
Subtle personality changes, restlessness, irritability, or confusion in a patient who has sustained a fracture are indications for immediate arterial blood gas studies due to the possibility of fat embolism syndrome. This assessment finding does not indicate an immediate need for electrolyte levels, an ECG, or abdominal ultrasound.