PULMONARY EMBOLISM

CAUSES:

1. Fat embolism
2. multiple Trauma
3. Peripheral Vascular Disease
4. Abdominal Surgery
5. Immobility
6. Hypercoagulabilty

ASSESSMENT:

1. Restlessness (Cardinal initial sign)
2. Dyspne
3. Stabbin chest pain
4. Cyanosis
5. Tachycardia
6. Dilated Pupils
7. Apprehension/Fear
8. Diaphoresis
9. Dysrhythmias
10. Hypoxia

NURSING INTERVENTIONS:

1. O2 therapy STAT
2. Early ambulation postop
3. Monitor obese patient
4. Do not massage legs
5. Relieve pain
6. Head of bed elevated
7. Heparin (2wks) then coumadine (3-6 months)

PATIENT TEACHING:
1. Do's

• observe for bleeding
• use soft toothbrush, electric razor
• evaluate use of contraceptive

2. Dont's

• take ASA with coumadine
• restrictive clothing on legs
• prolonged sitting and standing
• smoking
• bruises, constipation, contact sports