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Pulmonary embolism in pregnancy — RCPSC EM MCQ

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HardRespiratory emergenciesPulmonary embolism in pregnancyRCPSC EM

CTAS 2. A 33-year-old at 31 weeks' gestation has pleuritic chest pain and dyspnoea. HR is 118, SpO2 93%, and left calf is swollen. Chest x-ray is normal. Compression ultrasound of the leg is negative. What is the most appropriate investigation?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: D — CT pulmonary angiography or V/Q imaging after shared decision

Pregnancy does not preclude thoracic imaging when PE remains suspected after leg ultrasound; CTPA or V/Q choice depends on local factors and shared discussion.

Reference: Thrombosis Canada Pregnancy: Diagnosis of DVT and PE