A client with a history of pulmonary embolism reports experiencing sudden shortness of breath, lightheadedness, and rapid heart rate. Which term best describes this clinical presentation?

A) Incorrect. While pain management is important, providing supplemental oxygen to address severe shortness of breath takes priority.

B) Incorrect. Initiating anticoagulant therapy is essential but may take some time to have an effect. Oxygen therapy should be provided immediately to address the client's oxygenation.

C) Correct. Providing supplemental oxygen is the priority intervention for a client with severe

shortness of breath to ensure adequate oxygenation.

D) Incorrect. Encouraging ambulation is not appropriate in a client with severe shortness of breath. Stabilizing the client's oxygenation and condition is the immediate concern.

A) Incorrect. This description is more aligned with a lung infection, such as pneumonia, not pulmonary embolism.

B) Correct. Pulmonary embolism is typically caused by a blood clot that travels to the lungs and obstructs the pulmonary arteries.

C) Incorrect. Prolonged exposure to environmental toxins is not the primary cause of pulmonary embolism.

D) Incorrect. Chronic inflammation in the airways is characteristic of conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) but not pulmonary embolism.