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Low-risk pulmonary embolism — ABEM Board MCQ

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HardPulmonary emergenciesLow-risk pulmonary embolismABEM Board

A 38-year-old man arrives as ESI 2 with pleuritic chest pain and dyspnea after a long flight. HR 118, BP 122/78, SpO2 93%. CT pulmonary angiography shows bilateral segmental pulmonary emboli without right ventricular strain; troponin is normal. Which of the following is the most appropriate disposition?

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: E — Discharge or observe with anticoagulation if low-risk criteria and follow-up are met

Selected low-risk PE patients may be treated as outpatients when stable, anticoagulated, and able to follow up; RV strain or instability would change disposition.

Reference: ACEP Clinical Policy: Acute Venous Thromboembolic Disease; CHEST VTE guideline