An 80-year-old female is in the hospital for bone fracture. While there she develops a large, nonlethal pulmonary embolus. Which of the following is a direct result of the obstruction to blood flow?
A) Pulmonary hypertension
B) Systemic hypertension
C) Pulmonary edema
D) Risk of cerebral emboli

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Obstruction of blood flow to the lungs can cause an increase in pressure within the pulmonary circulation leading to pulmonary hypertension. Systemic hypertension is not a direct result of this obstruction. Pulmonary edema and risk of cerebral emboli are possible complications of pulmonary embolus but not a direct result of obstruction to blood flow.

An 80-Year-Old Female Is in the Hospital for Bone Fracture