Musculoskeletal and Orthopedic Conditions Flashcards

Fat embolism syndrome (FES) is a serious complication most commonly associated with:

Answer: Long bone fractures, particularly femur and tibia

Fat embolism syndrome most commonly occurs after fractures of long bones (femur, tibia) when fat globules enter the bloodstream.

A patient with FES develops petechiae on the chest, axillae, and conjunctivae 48 hours after a femur fracture. The nurse recognizes this as:

Answer: A classic sign of fat embolism syndrome

Petechiae on the chest, axillae, and conjunctivae are a classic clinical sign of fat embolism syndrome caused by fat microglobules obstructing dermal capillaries.

A patient in skeletal traction requires nursing care. Which action is correct?

Answer: Ensure weights hang freely and do not rest on the floor

Traction weights must hang freely at all times to maintain proper traction force; resting weights on the floor negates the therapeutic effect.

A patient asks the nurse why ice packs are applied to a sprained ankle in the first 48 hours. The best response is:

Answer: 'Cold reduces blood flow and decreases inflammation and swelling.'

Cold therapy reduces blood flow via vasoconstriction, decreasing local inflammation, edema, and pain in the acute phase of injury.

A patient with gout is having an acute attack. Which dietary teaching is most appropriate?

Answer: Increase fluid intake and avoid purine-rich foods and alcohol

Adequate hydration promotes uric acid excretion; avoiding purines (organ meats, shellfish) and alcohol reduces uric acid production during a gout attack.

A patient with osteoarthritis is prescribed celecoxib (Celebrex). The nurse should monitor for which serious adverse effect?

Answer: Cardiovascular events and GI bleeding

COX-2 inhibitors like celecoxib carry a black box warning for increased risk of cardiovascular events (MI, stroke) and GI bleeding.