pulmonary embolus

Question 1

signs of a pulmonary emboli

Answer 1

tachypnea, tachycardia, elevated or low BP, decreased oxygen saturation, loss of skin color an/or cyanosis, clear lung sounds (may have crackles in severe embolus

Question 2

symptoms or a pulmonary embolus

Answer 2

shortness of breath, chest pain, cough (with or without blood), lightheadedness/dizziness, rapid or irregular palpitations, fever, excessive sweating, anxiety

Question 3

risk factors for a pulmonary emboli

Answer 3

immobility, trauma or leg surgery, congestive heart failure, increased blood coagulation, cancer, mothers during childbirth

Question 4

diagnostic testing for PE

Answer 4

CT angiogram, ventilation and perfusion scan, ABG’s, ultrasound in the lower extremities, d-dimer (blood test measuring clotting in the body)

Question 5

treatment of PE

Answer 5

blood thinners, venous filter

Question 6

reduced oxygen from a pulmonary embolus can force significant pressure changes in the ____ system, causing increased edema, and ______ sided heart failure. This is due to the increased ______ in the pulmonary arteries and ________ from release of chemical mediators

Answer 6

venous
right-
resistance
vasoconstriction

Question 7

older adults are at greater risk for DVT and PE due to:

Answer 7

immobility, medications, surgeries, injuries

Question 8

prevention for PE

Answer 8

support stockings, blood thinners, anti-platelet medications, smoking cessation, use alternative to high-risk medications