A nurse is caring for a client with suspected pulmonary embolism who is undergoing diagnostic testing. What diagnostic test is often used as an initial screening tool for pulmonary embolism?

Computed tomography angiography (CTA)

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Chest X-ray

Electrocardiogram (ECG)

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A) Correct. Computed tomography angiography (CTA) is often used as an initial screening tool for pulmonary embolism, as it provides detailed images of the pulmonary arteries.

B) Incorrect. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be used in some cases but is less commonly employed as an initial screening tool for pulmonary embolism.

C) Incorrect. Chest X-ray is typically not sensitive enough to diagnose pulmonary embolism directly but may show other related findings, such as an enlarged heart or lung abnormalities.

D) Incorrect. Electrocardiogram (ECG) may help identify signs of right heart strain or dysfunction caused by a pulmonary embolism but is not a primary diagnostic tool for detecting emboli in the pulmonary arteries.

Nursing Test Bank

Quiz #1: RN Exams Pharmacology Exams Quiz #2: RN Exams Medical-Surgical Exams Quiz #3: RN Exams Fundamentals Exams Quiz #4: RN Exams Maternal-Newborn Exams Quiz #5: RN Exams Anatomy and Physiology Exams Quiz #6: RN Exams Obstetrics and Pediatrics Exams Quiz #7: RN Exams Fluid and Electrolytes Exams Quiz #8: RN Exams Community Health Exams Quiz #9: RN Exams Promoting Health across the lifespan Exams Quiz #10: RN Exams Multidimensional care Exams

Get 100+ Naxlex Exit Exams for $79 Try Naxlex NCLEX-RN (14 Day Free-Trial)

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Quiz #1: Naxlex RN Comprehensive online practice 2019 B with NGN Quiz #2: Naxlex RN Comprehensive Predictor 2023 Quiz #3: Naxlex RN Comprehensive Predictor 2023 Exit Exam A Quiz #4: Naxlex HESI Exit LPN Exam Quiz #5: Naxlex PN Comprehensive Predictor PN 2020 Quiz #6: Naxlex VATI PN Comprehensive Predictor 2020 Quiz #8: Naxlex PN Comprehensive Predictor 2023 - Exam 1 Quiz #10: Naxlex HESI PN Exit exam Quiz #11: Naxlex HESI PN EXIT Exam 2

Free Nursing Study Resources

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A) Incorrect. An echocardiogram does not visualize blood clots in the pulmonary arteries; it focuses on assessing heart function and structure.

B) Correct. An echocardiogram provides valuable information about heart valve function and heart structure, helping assess the impact of a pulmonary embolism on the heart.

C) Incorrect. Measurement of arterial blood gases (ABGs) is typically performed through blood sampling, not with an echocardiogram.

D) Incorrect. Echocardiograms do not evaluate lung function and ventilation; they primarily assess cardiac function.

A. "Surgery does not increase the risk of pulmonary embolism." B. "The risk of pulmonary embolism is only associated with minor surgeries." C. "Pulmonary embolism risk is higher after major surgeries and procedures." D. "Surgery has no impact on pulmonary embolism risk; it's entirely genetic."

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A) Incorrect. Surgery, especially major procedures, can increase the risk of pulmonary embolism.

B) Incorrect. The risk of pulmonary embolism is often higher after major surgeries, not limited to minor procedures.

C) Correct. Major surgeries and procedures carry a higher risk of pulmonary embolism due to factors like immobility and surgical trauma.

D) Incorrect. While genetics can play a role in clotting disorders, surgery remains a significant risk factor for pulmonary embolism.

View Question and Answer

Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.

Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today

A nurse is caring for a client with suspected pulmonary embolism who is undergoing diagnostic testing. What diagnostic test is often used as an initial screening tool for pulmonary embolism?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client is undergoing an echocardiogram as part of the diagnostic workup for suspected pulmonary embolism. What information can an echocardiogram provide in this context?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A client inquires about the role of surgery in the development of pulmonary embolism. What should the nurse explain regarding this risk factor?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A client with a history of recurrent pulmonary embolism is prescribed long-term anticoagulant therapy. What medication is commonly used for long-term anticoagulation in this situation?

A client asks a nurse about the process that leads to a pulmonary embolism. How should the nurse explain the pathophysiology of pulmonary embolism?

A nurse is teaching a client about the risk factors for pulmonary embolism. Which statement made by the client indicates a correct understanding of the risk factors?

A client recovering from major surgery asks a nurse about the risk of developing a pulmonary embolism postoperatively. What should the nurse include in the explanation of post-surgery risk factors?

A nurse is educating a client about the signs and symptoms of a pulmonary embolism. Which symptom should the nurse emphasize as a common and concerning presentation of pulmonary embolism?

A nurse is caring for a client with suspected pulmonary embolism. The client's oxygen saturation drops significantly, and the nurse observes cyanosis of the lips and nail beds. Which term best describes this clinical finding?

A nurse is educating a client on how a pulmonary embolism can impact lung function. What should the nurse emphasize regarding the physiological effects?

A nurse is educating a client diagnosed with pulmonary embolism about the treatment options. Which of the following interventions is a common initial treatment approach for pulmonary embolism?