A 71-year-old female is complaining of the sudden onset of shortness of breath and rapid breathing. She also states that she is experiencing some chest pain that seems to worsen when she takes a deep breath. The primary assessment shows her to be alert and oriented with a patent airway and rapid breathing that is adequate. Her pulse rate is 92 per minute and her blood pressure is 116/68 mmHg. When obtaining a history, which statement made by the patient should raise your suspicion that the patient may be experiencing a pulmonary embolism?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The fact that the patient had recent foot surgery puts her at higher risk for a blood clot in her legs, which could potentially lead to a pulmonary embolism. The other statements are not as relevant to a suspected pulmonary embolism.

A 71-Year-Old Female Is Complaining of the Sudden Onset of Shortness