Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

What term describes a thrombus that forms in the deep veins of the legs and travels to the pulmonary artery?

1. Pneumothorax

2. Deep vein thrombosis

3. Pulmonary embolism

4. Heart attack

The correct answer is: Pulmonary embolism

The term that accurately describes a thrombus that forms in the deep veins of the legs and subsequently travels to the pulmonary artery is pulmonary embolism. This condition occurs when a blood clot from the deep veins (often referred to as a deep vein thrombosis) dislodges, travels through the bloodstream, and lodges in the pulmonary arterial system, blocking blood flow to the lungs. Pulmonary embolism is a serious medical emergency as it can lead to significant respiratory distress, decreased oxygenation of the blood, and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. The journey of the clot from its origin in the deep veins to its resting place in the pulmonary artery exemplifies a critical pathophysiological process that underscores the importance of recognizing and treating deep vein thrombosis to prevent pulmonary embolism. In contrast, other terms like pneumothorax, deep vein thrombosis, and heart attack do not encapsulate the scenario described. Pneumothorax refers to air in the pleural space, deep vein thrombosis specifically denotes the clot formation in the veins, and heart attack relates to myocardial infarction due to coronary artery obstruction. Each of these conditions has its own distinct etiologies and implications, differentiating them from pulmonary embolism.