What symptom might a nurse expect to find in a client with a nasal fracture?

A nasal fracture can lead to several symptoms due to the structural damage and potential injury to surrounding tissues. One common observation is the presence of clear fluid drainage from the nares, which can indicate the presence of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage. This occurs when there is a fracture that extends into the base of the skull, allowing CSF to leak out along the path of least resistance.

In this situation, the presence of clear fluid specifically suggests a more serious complication that requires immediate medical evaluation, as it can signal a risk of meningitis or other complications associated with trauma to the head. The management of a nasal fracture includes monitoring for this type of drainage, among other symptoms, to ensure proper care and treatment.

While severe facial swelling, reddish discharge, and inability to breathe through the nose can also occur with a nasal fracture, clear fluid drainage provides a vital clinical indication of potential complications and requires additional assessment.