skip to main content

Massive pulmonary embolism — ACEM Fellowship MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardCardiovascular emergenciesMassive pulmonary embolismACEM Fellowship

A 46-year-old woman presents to a Gold Coast ED, triage category 1, with collapse 8 days after knee arthroscopy. BP 74/40, HR 132, SpO2 88% on 15 L oxygen. Bedside echo shows dilated right ventricle and CT pulmonary angiography confirms saddle embolus. What is the most appropriate management?

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B — Give systemic thrombolysis after senior review

Confirmed PE with shock and RV dilation is massive PE; thrombolysis is considered when bleeding risk is acceptable.

Reference: ACEM FACEM Curriculum; eTG venous thromboembolism