Chapter 29 Pulmonary Embolism Guaranteed A+
What is the purpose of the D-dimer test in diagnosing pulmonary embolism?
✔️✔️ The D-dimer test measures substances released when a blood clot breaks down, helping to
indicate the presence of abnormal clotting in the body.
How does obesity contribute to the risk of pulmonary embolism?
✔️✔️ Obesity can slow blood flow in the veins, particularly in the legs, and increase pressure on veins,
raising the risk of blood clot formation.
Why might a pulmonary embolism cause coughing, and what might be coughed up?
✔️✔️ A PE can irritate the lung lining, causing coughing, sometimes with bloody or blood-tinged
mucus.
What factors make surgery a risk for developing a pulmonary embolism?
✔️✔️ Surgery often involves immobility and tissue damage, which increase clotting risk, as well as the
effects of anesthesia, which can slow blood flow.
How does dehydration impact the likelihood of developing a pulmonary embolism?
✔️✔️ Dehydration can thicken blood, making it more prone to clotting and increasing the risk of
developing a pulmonary embolism.
What is the primary goal of treatment once a pulmonary embolism has been diagnosed?
✔️✔️ The primary goal is to prevent further clot growth, allow the body to dissolve the clot, and
reduce the risk of recurrence.
How does a pulmonary embolism lead to low blood pressure in severe cases?
✔️✔️ A large PE can obstruct blood flow to the lungs, reducing blood returning to the heart, causing a
sudden drop in blood pressure.
,What is post-pulmonary embolism syndrome?
✔️✔️ It’s a condition where individuals experience long-term symptoms, like chest pain and shortness
of breath, even after a PE is treated.
What is chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH), and how does it relate to pulmonary
embolism?
✔️✔️ CTEPH is a rare form of high blood pressure in the lungs caused by unresolved clots from
previous pulmonary embolisms.
What is the role of imaging in pulmonary embolism diagnosis?
✔️✔️ Imaging, especially CT pulmonary angiography, helps to visualize clots in the lungs and confirm
the presence and location of a PE.
Why is it important for patients to avoid smoking after a pulmonary embolism?
✔️✔️ Smoking damages blood vessels and increases clotting risk, so avoiding it helps lower the
chances of a recurring PE.
What is a pulmonary infarction, and how might it result from a pulmonary embolism?
✔️✔️ Pulmonary infarction occurs when lung tissue dies due to lack of blood flow, a possible
complication of a blocked pulmonary artery in a PE.
How does walking after surgery help prevent pulmonary embolism?
✔️✔️ Walking improves blood circulation, especially in the legs, reducing the likelihood of clot
formation and subsequent pulmonary embolism.
What are the signs of a massive pulmonary embolism, and why is it especially dangerous?
✔️✔️ A massive PE can cause severe chest pain, rapid heart rate, and low blood pressure, leading to
shock and potential heart failure.
What physical exams might a doctor perform if pulmonary embolism is suspected?
, ✔️✔️ A doctor may check for signs of deep vein thrombosis, such as leg swelling or tenderness, and
listen to the heart and lungs for abnormal sounds.
How does a sedentary lifestyle increase the risk of pulmonary embolism?
✔️✔️ Prolonged sitting or inactivity slows blood flow in the legs, increasing the chances of clot
formation and, subsequently, a PE.
What are potential complications of anticoagulant therapy?
✔️✔️ Complications can include bleeding, including internal bleeding, and in rare cases, allergic
reactions to the medication.
Why are people who have recently broken a leg or hip at higher risk for pulmonary embolism?
✔️✔️ The immobilization from a fracture restricts movement, which can lead to blood pooling and
clotting in the affected limb.
Can someone with a history of pulmonary embolism donate blood?
✔️✔️ Many organizations restrict blood donation from people with a history of blood clots to avoid
potential risks, although policies vary.
How can diet impact the effectiveness of anticoagulant therapy in pulmonary embolism patients?
✔️✔️ Foods rich in vitamin K (like leafy greens) can interfere with certain anticoagulants, so patients
may need to monitor their intake.
A nurse answers a call light and finds a client anxious, short of breath, reporting chest pain, and has a
blood pressure of 88/52 mm Hg. What action by the nurse takes priority?
a. Assess the client's lung sounds.
b. Notify the Rapid Response Team.
c. Provide reassurance to the client.
d. Take a full set of vital signs ✔️✔️ANS: B
