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Pulmonary embolism — DipIMC MCQ

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ModerateMedical EmergenciesPulmonary embolismDipIMC

A 39-year-old man has pleuritic chest pain, haemoptysis and sudden breathlessness after a long-haul flight. He is tachycardic, oxygen saturations are 88% and blood pressure is 112/70. What is the most appropriate transport decision?

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Correct answer: D — Transport to an emergency department with pre-alert for suspected pulmonary embolism

Pulmonary embolism can present with pleuritic pain, haemoptysis, hypoxaemia and tachycardia after immobility. Normal blood pressure does not exclude significant PE. Antibiotics or aspirin do not address suspected embolic disease and should not delay ED assessment. The pearl is that pre-hospital care is recognition, oxygen titration and appropriate destination rather than definitive diagnosis.

Reference: JRCALC Guidelines 2025; NICE Venous Thromboembolic Diseases NG158