A healthcare professional is caring for four patients. Which patient does the professional assess for pulmonary emboli (PE) as the priority?

A. Atherosclerosis causes ischemia of the intima: While atherosclerosis can affect the intima (the inner layer of the blood vessel), it primarily leads to plaque formation and vessel wall changes rather than causing ischemia directly in the intima. Ischemia typically refers to reduced blood supply to tissues.

B. Atherosclerosis erodes the vessel wall: Atherosclerosis leads to the formation of plaques that can erode and weaken the vessel wall over time. This weakening can create areas of localized dilation, leading to the development of aneurysms. The disruption of the structural integrity of the vessel wall due to atherosclerosis is a key factor in the formation of aneurysms.

C. It increases nitric oxide: Atherosclerosis is associated with impaired endothelial function, which typically results in reduced production of nitric oxide rather than an increase. Nitric oxide is a vasodilator that helps maintain vascular health, and its decrease contributes to vascular dysfunction.

D. It obstructs the vessel: While atherosclerosis can lead to vascular obstruction through plaque buildup, the direct relationship between atherosclerosis and aneurysm formation is more about the weakening and erosion of the vessel wall rather than simply obstructing it. Obstruction can lead to ischemia, but it is not the primary mechanism leading to aneurysm development.

A. Shortness of breath and need for oxygen supplementation: These symptoms are more indicative of respiratory or cardiac conditions rather than Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). While patients with PAD may experience discomfort during exertion, shortness of breath is not a primary symptom associated with PAD.

B. Tachycardia and hypotension: Tachycardia and hypotension are generally signs of acute distress, shock, or severe cardiovascular issues. These symptoms do not specifically indicate PAD, which is characterized by issues related to blood flow in the peripheral arteries.

C. Decreased alertness and slurred speech: These symptoms suggest possible neurological issues, such as a stroke or transient ischemic attack, rather than PAD. PAD primarily affects blood flow to the extremities and does not typically present with neurological symptoms.

D. Diminished pulses and pain with walking or exercise: Diminished pulses in the legs and claudication, or pain with walking or exercise, are classic symptoms of Peripheral Artery Disease. These symptoms occur due to reduced blood flow to the muscles in the legs, particularly during physical activity, and are indicative of arterial blockages.