Clinical Presentation & Protocol
Patient Usually Complains Of
Patient presents with acute onset of mild dyspnea and pleuritic chest pain. Hemodynamically stable, normotensive, and saturating >94% on room air. PESI score <65 (Class I) and HESTIA criteria negative for high-risk features. No evidence of right ventricular strain on bedside echo or elevated troponin levels.
Clinical Examination Findings
General appearance: Patient in no acute distress. Cardiovascular: Regular rate and rhythm, S1/S2 audible, no murmurs, rubs, or gallops. Jugular venous pressure normal. Respiratory: Lungs clear to auscultation bilaterally, no wheezing or crackles. Extremities: No unilateral calf swelling, tenderness, or pitting edema.
Treatment Protocol
Initiate anticoagulation therapy with DOAC (e.g., Apixaban or Rivaroxaban) as per protocol for low-risk PE. Patient deemed suitable for outpatient management. Follow-up scheduled in 1 week for clinical reassessment and medication adherence review.