A 44-year-old woman developed calf pain during a transatlantic flight followed by acute shortness of breath upon arrival at her destination. She was subsequently diagnosed with a pulmonary embolism (PE), which resolved with anticoagulant therapy. Which of the following statements best characterizes the underlying problem of her PE? Answer Options:

1. The patient experienced shortness of breath because ventilation was occurring but perfusion was inadequate.
2. Restoration of normal perfusion but compromised ventilation caused hypoxia.
3. The patient developed a transient anatomic shunt resulting in impaired oxygenation.
4. Decreased diffusion across alveolar membranes resulted in dyspnea and hypoxia.

Correct Answer:

1. The patient experienced shortness of breath because ventilation was occurring but perfusion was inadequate.

Question 2:

A 66-year-old male presents to the emergency department accompanied by his wife who claims that he has been acting confused. The man is complaining of a sudden onset of severe weakness and malaise and has a dry cough and diarrhea. His temperature is 102.8°F, and his blood work indicates his sodium level is 126 mEq/L (normal is 135 to 145 mEq/L). What will be the most likely suspicion of the assessing nurse practitioner? Answer Options:

1. Hyponatremia due to dehydration
2. Legionnaires' disease
3. Viral gastroenteritis
4. Acute renal failure

Correct Answer: 2. Legionnaires' disease