For a client with a fractured femur, a nurse is alert to the possibility of a fat embolus. The nurse specifically watches for:

For a client with a fractured femur, a nurse is alert to the possibility of a fat embolus. The nurse specifically watches for:

• A. Bradypnea
• B. Restlessness
• C. Bradycardia
• D. Hypertension

Answer: (B)

Restlessness is an early clue to fat embolism syndrome after a femur fracture. When fat droplets from the bone marrow enter the bloodstream, they can travel to the lungs and brain, causing neuro changes and hypoxemia. The brain’s response often shows up first as agitation, anxiety, or restlessness before more obvious symptoms develop. The other options are less typical early signs: bradypnea would mean slower breathing and isn’t expected with fat emboli; bradycardia is uncommon—tachycardia due to hypoxemia is more typical; and hypertension isn’t the hallmark early feature. Monitoring for restlessness helps prompt assessment and supportive care to improve oxygenation and prevent progression.

Restlessness is an early clue to fat embolism syndrome after a femur fracture. When fat droplets from the bone marrow enter the bloodstream, they can travel to the lungs and brain, causing neuro changes and hypoxemia. The brain’s response often shows up first as agitation, anxiety, or restlessness before more obvious symptoms develop. The other options are less typical early signs: bradypnea would mean slower breathing and isn’t expected with fat emboli; bradycardia is uncommon—tachycardia due to hypoxemia is more typical; and hypertension isn’t the hallmark early feature. Monitoring for restlessness helps prompt assessment and supportive care to improve oxygenation and prevent progression.