- The client/caregiver can define pulmonary embolism.
- It is an obstruction in the blood vessel of a lung.
- The obstruction prevents blood flow to a portion of the lung.
- Without adequate blood supply, the lung cannot function properly, and lung tissue may be destroyed.
- The client/caregiver can list factors that may cause pulmonary embolism.
- Recent surgery (such as major joint replacement surgery)
- Immobility or prolonged bedrest
- Increased levels of clotting factor
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Birth control pills
- Family history
- Pacemakers
- Fractures and injury
- Some medical conditions (certain cancers, heart disease, and inflammatory bowel disease)
- The client/caregiver can recognize signs and symptoms.
- Symptoms are
- Sudden shortness of breath (active or at rest)
- Chest pain similar to pain with a heart attack that will not ease with rest
- Excessive sweating
- Rapid heartbeat
- Lightheadedness or fainting
- Wheezing
- Clammy or bluish color to skin
- Leg swelling
- Weak pulse
- Symptoms are
- The client/caregiver can list measures to prevent pulmonary embolism.
- Promote good circulation.
- Exercise regularly especially leg exercises with rest periods.
- When traveling, move lower legs and feet while sitting. Change position as able.
- Wear antiembolism stockings.
- Avoid crossing legs or sitting for long periods of time.
- Avoid constrictive clothing.
- Avoid nicotine.
- Increase fluid intake to at least six to eight glasses per day.
- Take medication as prescribed.
- Follow general safety precautions to prevent injury.
- Avoid laxatives because they affect vitamin K absorption.
- Keep follow-up appointments with physician.
- Promote good circulation.
- The client/caregiver is aware of possible complications.
- Pulmonary infarction (death of lung tissue)
- Pulmonary hypertension
- Heart failure
- Collapse of lung
- Shock
- Cardiopulmonary arrest (heart stops)
Resources
American Lung Associationwww.lungusa.org
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institutewww.nhlbi.nih.gov
American Heart Associationwww.heart.org
References
Ackley, B. J., & Ladwig, G. B. (2006). Nursing diagnosis handbook: A guide to planning care. Philadelphia: Mosby Inc.
Cohen, B. J., & Taylor, J. J. (2005). Memmler’s the human body in health and disease (10th ed.). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams and Wilkins.
Perry, A., & Potter, P. (2006). Clinical nursing skills & technique. St. Louis: Mosby Inc.
Timby, B. K., & Smith, N. C. (2003). Introductory medical-surgical nursing (8th ed.). Philadelphia: J. B. Lippincott
Credits
Client Teaching Guides for Home Health Care, 2nd ed.
© 2008 Jones and Bartlett Publishers, Inc.
