Final answer:
The client at the highest risk for pulmonary embolism is the one who is 48 hours postoperative following a total hip arthroplasty. The risk is due to increased chances of clot formation after major orthopedic surgery, contrasting with other conditions like nasal bleeding or coughs that do not carry the same risk factors.
Step-by-step explanation:
In regard to the client at greatest risk for pulmonary embolism, it is the client who is 48 hours postoperative following a total hip arthroplasty that faces the highest risk. This is because after major orthopedic surgery, such as a hip replacement, there is an increased risk of blood clot formation, which can potentially lead to a pulmonary embolism if a clot dislodges and travels to the lungs. Other clients described in the scenarios are at lower risk for pulmonary embolism. Nasal bleeding and nasopharyngeal suctioning, productive cough with green sputum, and a persistent cough, while they are significant symptoms that require attention, do not have the same direct risk factors associated with the development of a pulmonary embolism as a recent major surgery does.
Patient care after operations like a hip arthroplasty often includes measures to prevent clot formation such as the use of anticoagulant medication, mechanical compression devices, and encouraging early mobilization. The patient's healthcare team must closely monitor for any signs of venous thromboembolism, including pulmonary embolism, which is a serious life-threatening condition.