Paramedic National Registry Practice

A patient presents with heavy chest pain following recent surgery and hospitalization. What condition should be suspected?

1. Pneumothorax

2. Angina

3. Pulmonary embolism

4. Pneumonia

The correct answer is: Pulmonary embolism

The suspicion of pulmonary embolism in a patient presenting with heavy chest pain following recent surgery and hospitalization is supported by the fact that this condition often arises in such contexts. Surgery and prolonged immobilization can lead to the formation of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the legs, which can then dislodge and travel to the pulmonary arteries, causing a blockage. Pulmonary embolism is characterized by sudden onset of chest pain, which can be sharp and may worsen with deep breaths or coughing. Additionally, other symptoms might include shortness of breath, tachycardia, and potentially hemoptysis. In contrast, while conditions like pneumothorax, angina, and pneumonia may present with chest pain, their typical presentations and associated risk factors differ. Pneumothorax would more commonly present in patients with prior lung conditions or without recent surgery. Angina usually relates to ischemic heart conditions and might not be as acute post-surgery. Pneumonia is generally accompanied by fever, cough, and sputum production, which are less common in an isolated presentation of pulmonary embolism. Therefore, given the context of recent surgery and the nature of symptoms, pulmonary embolism aligns most closely with the clinical scenario.