Final answer:
Early assessment findings for a fat embolism after sustaining a femur fracture typically include fever, tachycardia, rapid respirations, and neurological manifestations.
Step-by-step explanation:
When assessing a patient like Sam who has sustained a fracture to the femur, it is essential to be aware of the possible complication of a fat embolism. Early assessment findings for a fat embolism would typically include symptoms such as fever, tachycardia (rapid heart rate), rapid respirations, and neurological manifestations, which may range from confusion to seizures or even coma. These symptoms result from fat globules released into the bloodstream, which can clog blood vessels and affect the lungs, brain, and other organs.