SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
This is the most frequent symptom of pulmonary embolism.
What is dyspnea?
This test is obtained FIRST when acute coronary syndrome is suspected.
What is a 12‑lead ECG?
This medication class prevents clot extension but does not dissolve existing clots.
What are anticoagulants?
This is the most effective nursing action to prevent venous stasis.
What is early ambulation?
This triad explains the development of venous thromboembolism.
What is Virchow’s triad?
Unilateral leg swelling, warmth, and tenderness are classic manifestations of this condition.
What is deep vein thrombosis?
This laboratory test indicates myocardial injury.
What is troponin?
These medications are commonly called “clot busters.”
What are thrombolytics?
This positioning intervention increases venous return in patients on bed rest.
What is elevating the legs above heart level?
Immobility contributes to this component of Virchow’s triad.
What is venous stasis?
This type of angina presents with predictable chest pain relieved by rest or nitroglycerin.
What is stable angina?
This is the criterion standard diagnostic test for pulmonary embolism.
What is CT angiography of the chest?
This emergent procedure is preferred for STEMI when available and performed within 60 minutes.
What is percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI)?
These precautions are essential when caring for patients on anticoagulants.
What are bleeding precautions?
Pregnancy increases clot risk due to this physiological change.
What is hypercoagulability?
Sudden pleuritic chest pain, anxiety, and tachypnea suggest this life‑threatening event.
What is pulmonary embolism?
This test may be used when CTA is unavailable or contraindicated due to contrast allergy or renal failure.
What is a V/Q scan?
This therapy is indicated for hemodynamically unstable pulmonary embolism when no contraindications exist.
What is thrombolytic therapy?
This nursing action is avoided in patients with suspected or confirmed DVT due to embolization risk.
What is massaging the affected extremity?
Older age, obesity, and heart failure all increase risk for this condition.
What is deep vein thrombosis?
Elevated troponins with no ST elevation but prolonged chest pain indicates this acute coronary syndrome.
What is NSTEMI?
This bedside imaging test helps confirm DVT by identifying non‑compressible veins.
What is venous duplex ultrasound?
This device may be placed to prevent emboli when anticoagulation is contraindicated—typically for recurrent PE.
What is an inferior vena cava (IVC) filter?
During thrombolytic therapy, manual pressure must be applied to the puncture sites for at least this long.
What is 30 minutes?
This simple intervention reduces blood viscosity and helps prevent clot formation.
What is adequate fluid intake?