Question

A nurse in the ED is assessing a client who has sustained multiple rib fractures and has a flail chest. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect? (Select all that apply.)

A. Bradycardia
B. Cyanosis
C. Hypotension
D. Dyspnea
E. Paradoxical chest movement

Answer 1

The nurse should be findings expect:

B. Cyanosis

C. Hypotension

D. Dyspnea

E. Paradoxical chest movement

Step-by-step explanation:

1.Cyanosis: With multiple rib fractures and a flail chest, impaired breathing can lead to inadequate oxygenation, resulting in cyanosis, a bluish discoloration of the skin or mucous membranes due to a lack of oxygen.

2.Hypotension: Severe pain, compromised breathing, and potential underlying lung injury in cases of multiple rib fractures and flail chest can lead to hypotension or low blood pressure.

3.Dyspnea: The patient may experience difficulty breathing (dyspnea) due to the rib fractures causing pain and restricting normal chest expansion.

4.Paradoxical chest movement: A flail chest occurs when a segment of the rib cage breaks under extreme stress, causing a portion of the chest wall to move in the opposite direction of the rest of the chest during breathing. This paradoxical chest movement indicates a serious injury and difficulty in maintaining normal breathing mechanics.

These findings are commonly associated with multiple rib fractures and a flail chest and are crucial for a nurse to recognize and address promptly in the Emergency Department.