Which nursing intervention is appropriate for a patient with pulmonary embolism?

In the context of managing a patient with pulmonary embolism, initiating IV access is crucial for several reasons, making it the correct choice here. Pulmonary embolism can lead to compromised gas exchange and significant hemodynamic instability. IV access allows for the rapid administration of life-saving medications, such as anticoagulants, thrombolytics, or supportive fluids, which are essential in treating this potentially life-threatening condition.

Establishing IV access also facilitates the administration of medications that may be necessary for managing symptoms or complications associated with pulmonary embolism. Time is often of the essence in these situations, so having immediate access to intravenous therapy can significantly affect patient outcomes.

Other interventions, while they may be part of the overall care plan, do not directly address the immediate therapeutic needs of a patient experiencing a pulmonary embolism in the same way initiating IV access does. For example, while encouraging deep breathing exercises can be beneficial for lung expansion and oxygenation, it might not be the priority in an acute situation. Similarly, positioning the patient flat on their back might not support optimal lung mechanics, and administering oral pain medication wouldn’t be appropriate if the patient needs immediate interventions delivered through IV.