Embolism
A clot, fat, or air that travels and blocks a blood vessel.
An embolism is a clot, fat globule, or air bubble that travels through the bloodstream and lodges in a vessel, cutting off flow. Sudden dyspnea, tachycardia, and chest pain in a post-op or immobile client suggests a pulmonary embolism — sit the client up, apply oxygen, and notify the provider immediately. Prevention centers on early ambulation, sequential compression devices, and prophylactic anticoagulants.
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