Final answer:
Surgical treatment involving the stabilization of the fractured femur is the appropriate course of action for a 55-year-old woman who presents with a fracture of the femur 5 years after a modified radical mastectomy for stage II carcinoma of the breast.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a 55-year-old woman presents with a fracture of the femur 5 years after a modified radical mastectomy for stage II carcinoma of the breast, the appropriate course of action would be to provide surgical treatment for the fractured femur.
The surgical repair of a fractured femur usually involves stabilizing the two portions of the broken bone using metal plates and screws or an intramedullary rod, depending on the specific fracture. It is important to note that femoral fractures in older individuals, particularly those with weakened bones due to osteoporosis, may require prolonged mobility assistance and can have substantial associated healthcare costs.