Treatment & Safe Care

of Patients with Pulmonary Embolism Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a serious medical condition in which a blood clot blocks one or more of the pulmonary arteries in the lungs. PE is a medical emergency that can lead to sudden death. Treatment of PE includes anticoagulation (blood thinning) drugs, thrombolysis (clot-dissolving medications), vena cava filter placement, and/or surgery. Safe care for patients with PE requires close monitoring for any signs and symptoms of the condition. Early detection is essential for successful treatment outcomes. Patients should be provided with information regarding the signs and symptoms of PE, including shortness of breath, chest pain, and coughing up blood. Patients should also be educated about the importance of compliance with their medications and lifestyle modifications, such as regular physical activity and quitting smoking, to reduce the risk of recurrent embolism and improve overall health.