RN Nursing · Health Assessment · Practice question
What is a pulmonary embolus?
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A mass of exudate that forms inside one or both lungs.
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A collapsed lung due to air in the pleural space.
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✓
A blood clot that obstructs the pulmonary artery.
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A collection of fluid in a branch of the pulmonary artery.
Answer & explanation
Correct: A blood clot that obstructs the pulmonary artery.
A pulmonary embolus is a thrombus — or less commonly another material such as fat, air, or amniotic fluid — that travels through the venous circulation and lodges in the pulmonary artery or one of its branches, obstructing blood flow to the lungs. Most pulmonary emboli originate as deep vein thrombi in the lower extremities that break free and travel through the right side of the heart into the pulmonary vasculature. The obstruction impairs perfusion to lung tissue that may still be ventilated, creating a ventilation-perfusion mismatch and hypoxemia. Option A is incorrect because a mass of exudate forming inside the lungs describes a consolidation or abscess, not an embolus. Option B is incorrect because a collapsed lung due to air in the pleural space is the definition of pneumothorax, a separate and distinct condition. Option D is incorrect because pulmonary emboli are solid clots that obstruct blood flow; fluid collections in pulmonary arteries is not an accurate description. Recognizing the correct definition of a pulmonary embolus — a blood clot obstructing the pulmonary artery — is essential for understanding its presentation, diagnosis, and emergent management.
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