If a pulmonary embolism is suspected, what is the nurse's priority action?

When a pulmonary embolism is suspected, the priority action is to elevate the head of the bed. This positioning helps to improve the patient’s respiratory status by facilitating better oxygen exchange and decreasing the work of breathing. Elevating the head of the bed can also help alleviate feelings of anxiety and panic, which may accompany respiratory distress.

In the context of a suspected pulmonary embolism, every second counts, and ensuring that the patient is able to breathe more comfortably is crucial. Providing a position that enhances ventilation can significantly affect the outcome until further interventions, such as administering anticoagulants or other treatments, are initiated by the healthcare team.

While obtaining vital signs, administering heparin, and checking lung sounds are also important actions in the management of a pulmonary embolism, they do not take precedence over ensuring the patient's immediate comfort and respiratory adequacy. Immediate interventions that support airway and breathing are prioritized in acute care situations like this.