Pulmonary Embolism

Sudden shortness of breath, chest pain (worse with deep breath), coughing up blood, rapid heart rate, lightheadedness, anxiety

Blood clot (usually from DVT) travels to lungs; risk factors: recent surgery, immobility, cancer, pregnancy, thrombophilia

Anticoagulants, thrombolytics, oxygen, embolectomy in severe cases, IVC filter if anticoagulation contraindicated

Monitor respiratory status, oxygen saturation, cardiac rhythm; assess for bleeding; educate on anticoagulation; prevent recurrence

Source: NHS Scotland. For educational purposes only.