Question

The nurse is admitting a patient with a diagnosis of pulmonary embolism. What risk factors is a priority for the nurse to assess?

A) Family history of diabetes.
B) History of gastrointestinal issues.
C) Previous history of clotting disorders.
D) Recent dental surgery.

Answer 1

The priority risk factor for a nurse to assess when admitting a patient with pulmonary embolism is the patient's previous history of clotting disorders, as these critically increase the risk of DVT and subsequently PE. Additional factors like smoking, obesity, immobility, and underlying conditions like heart failure are also relevant.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse admitting a patient with a diagnosis of pulmonary embolism (PE) should prioritize assessing risk factors that are directly related to the formation of blood clots. In this context, the priority risk factor to assess would be:

• C) Previous history of clotting disorders.

Clotting disorders increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which can lead to PE when a blood clot travels to the lungs. Other significant risk factors include prolonged immobility, such as from air travel or sitting for long periods, and underlying conditions like heart failure. Risk factors such as smoking, obesity, hypertension, and certain types of cancer are also pertinent. While important in general health, family history of diabetes and gastrointestinal issues are not as directly related to PE as clotting history. Recent dental surgery, although it can increase risk of infection, is not usually a primary risk factor for PE without other predispositions.