Which of the following physiologic effects of a pulmonary embolism would initially affect oxygenation?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The blood clot blocks blood flow to a region of the lung tissue. That area remains ventilated, but because blood flow is blocked, no gas exchange can occur in that region and a ventilation-perfusion mismatch is present. Ventilation isn't initially affected by a blood clot because air can still move normally through the bronchial tree.

Which of the Following Physiologic Effects of a Pulmonary Embolism