Field Internship Student Data Acquisition Project. (FISDAP) Airway Practice Exam

Which sign might indicate pulmonary embolism?

1. Coughing up blood

2. Fever

3. Wheezing

4. Abdominal pain

The correct answer is: Coughing up blood

Coughing up blood, also known as hemoptysis, is a significant clinical sign that may indicate the presence of a pulmonary embolism. This condition occurs when a blood clot travels to the lungs and obstructs a pulmonary artery. The blockage can lead to damage in lung tissue and airway irritation, which can manifest as coughing, sometimes with blood. This symptom, particularly in the context of other potential risk factors (like a recent surgery, prolonged immobility, or a history of clotting disorders), warrants immediate clinical evaluation for pulmonary embolism. While fever, wheezing, and abdominal pain can be associated with various pulmonary and systemic conditions, they are not specifically indicative of pulmonary embolism. Fever might suggest infection or inflammatory processes, wheezing could point to asthma or other obstructive airway conditions, and abdominal pain may derive from gastrointestinal issues or other ailments unrelated to a pulmonary event. Thus, when faced with symptoms pointing toward pulmonary embolism, coughing up blood stands out as a critical indicator demanding further investigation.