Final answer:
Clients with pelvic or long-bone fractures are at risk for deep vein thrombosis due to the immobility following the injury, which increases the chance of blood clot formation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Clients with pelvic or long-bone fractures are at risk for the development of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Long-bone fractures, such as those of the femur, can significantly impair mobility, sometimes requiring surgery. Such injuries, particularly hip fractures, often require immediate surgery. Following these injuries, the immobility experienced by patients increases the risk for several complications. Among these, DVT is a concern because the lack of movement can lead to the formation of blood clots within the deep veins. These clots can then travel to the lungs, causing a potentially fatal condition known as pulmonary embolism. Furthermore, immobility can also lead to pneumonia due to poor air exchange and urinary tract infections from prolonged catheterization. Therefore, it is crucial to manage immobility by encouraging movement and taking prophylactic measures against DVT in patients with fractures.