Question

A patient with suspected PE is low risk by clinical gestalt. Vitals: HR 78, SpO₂ 98%, no hemoptysis, no estrogen use, age 32, no prior VTE, no unilateral leg swelling, no recent surgery/trauma. Next step?

Accepted Answer

Apply PERC; if negative, no further testing

Answer

CT pulmonary angiography

Answer

D-dimer testing

Answer

Empiric anticoagulation

Answer

V/Q scan

Practice question

A patient with suspected PE is low risk by clinical gestalt. Vitals: HR 78, SpO₂ 98%, no hemoptysis, no estrogen use, age 32, no prior VTE, no unilateral leg swelling, no recent surgery/trauma. Next step?