A nurse is educating a client on how a pulmonary embolism can impact lung function. What should the nurse emphasize regarding the physiological effects?

A) Correct. Chest pain that worsens with deep breaths (pleuritic chest pain) is a common and concerning symptom of pulmonary embolism.

B) Incorrect. Persistent cough with yellow-green mucus production is not a typical symptom of pulmonary embolism.

C) Incorrect. Lightheadedness and dizziness can be associated with pulmonary embolism but are less specific symptoms.

D) Incorrect. Swelling and redness in the lower legs are more indicative of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which can sometimes lead to pulmonary embolism but are not direct symptoms of pulmonary embolism.

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.