Question

Blockage of the pulmonary artery by foreign matter or by a blood clot; the patient should remain in bed to decrease the risk of occurrence, avoid massaging the leg, apply warm compresses to the calves, and receive IV heparin therapy.

a) Pulmonary embolism
b) Myocardial infarction
c) Aortic dissection
d) Deep vein thrombosis

Answer 1

A pulmonary embolism is a blockage in the pulmonary artery usually caused by a blood clot from deep vein thrombosis. Preventive measures include bed rest, avoiding leg massages, warm compresses, and IV heparin therapy.

Step-by-step explanation:

The condition described in the question is a pulmonary embolism (PE), which occurs when a blood clot, often originating from a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the leg, travels to the lungs and blocks one of the pulmonary arteries. This disrupts the flow of blood, which can lead to lung damage or even sudden death. Recommendations to help prevent a PE include bed rest, avoiding massaging the legs, applying warm compresses to the calves, and receiving intravenous heparin therapy, which is an anticoagulant to prevent further clotting.