The following scenario applies to the next 6 items.
The nurse is caring for a 61-year-old female client in the emergency department.
0615:A 61-year-old client comes to the emergency department reporting shortness of breath. She states that she had to stop and sit down while getting ready for work this morning because she suddenly felt like she could not catch her breath. She denies any cough, fever, palpitations, or lightheadedness. She denies any recent sick contacts but notes that she recently injured her leg in a minor bicycle accident.
0645:Client placed on 2 L/min nasal cannula; reports relief of dyspnea. CT pulmonary angiography and right lower extremity doppler ultrasound complete. Client now being admitted with a diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, with plans to initiate an IV heparin drip once admitted to the floor.