Pulmonary Embolism for Progressive Care Certified Nurse (PCCN)

Pulmonary Embolism

Definition/Etiology:

• Blockage in the blood vessels of the lungs from fluid, blood, or air.
• Etiology
  • Immobility
  • Smoking
  • Atherosclerosis/Arteriosclerosis
  • Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD)

Pathophysiology:

• DVT
• Embolus
• PE
• Will draw on the picture how the clot could move.

Noticing: Assessment & Recognizing Cues:

• S/S Initially:
  • Nervousness
  • Tachypnea
• S/S progress:
  • Chest pain
  • Tachycardia
  • Shortness of breath
  • Dyspnea

Will give case example of “Dave” and how his situation progresses from DVT and PE

Interpreting: Analyzing & Planning:

• Diagnostics
  • ECG
  • CT scan with contrast
  • D-dimer
  • aPTT or anti-Xa

Responding: Patient Interventions & Taking Action:

• Treatment
  • Oxygen
  • Anticoagulation therapy
  • Symptom management

Reflecting: Evaluating Patient Outcomes:

• Patient improve?
  • Decreased chest pain
  • Improved breathing status
  • Plan for discharge

Linchpins (Key Points):

• Recognize change in status
• Oxygen not fixing it!
• Assess perfusion status
• Treat with anticoagulation therapy
• Did it work?