In a patient with pulmonary embolism, which complication should the nurse anticipate?

In a patient with pulmonary embolism (PE), several complications may arise due to the obstruction of blood flow in the pulmonary arteries. Each of the complications listed is a potential consequence of PE.

Heart failure can occur as the right ventricle faces increased workload due to the obstruction, leading to right ventricular strain and, potentially, deterioration of cardiac output.

Hypoxemia, or low oxygen levels in the blood, is a direct result of impaired gas exchange in the lungs caused by occluded pulmonary vessels, which reduces the blood flow available for oxygen uptake.

Ischemia, particularly of the right side of the heart and in other organs, can develop due to inadequate blood supply resulting from the blockage of blood flow through the pulmonary circulation.

Recognizing that all these complications can occur allows the nurse to closely monitor the patient for signs and symptoms associated with each potential issue. This comprehensive understanding enables timely intervention and improved patient outcomes. Therefore, the anticipation of all these complications reflects a thorough awareness of the serious implications associated with pulmonary embolism.