An adult patient arrives at the emergency department following a motor vehicle collision. The primary survey indicates the patient has an open femur fracture of the right leg. The patient is hemodynamically stable but is exhibiting restlessness, increased respiratory distress, and a petechial rash. Which of the following is the appropriate immediate nursing intervention?
Administer prophylactic antibiotics for potential wound infection.
Prepare for immediate intubation and respiratory support.
Splint the leg and prepare for immediate surgery to fix the fracture.
Apply a compression bandage to manage open fracture bleeding.
The patient's symptoms suggest the possibility of a fat embolus syndrome, which is a recognized complication of long bone fractures such as the femur. Fat embolus syndrome can result in respiratory distress, neurological symptoms, and a petechial rash. The immediate priority is to ensure adequate oxygenation and to prepare for the potential need for advanced respiratory support, as these symptoms can rapidly progress to respiratory failure.
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BCEN CEN
Musculoskeletal and Wound Emergencies
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