Critical Care Nursing Questions Related

Review Critical Care Nursing Questions related questions and content

Which treatment can be used to dissolve a thrombus that is lodged in the pulmonary artery?

  • A. Aspirin
  • B. Embolectomy
  • C. Heparin
  • D. Thrombolytics
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Thrombolytics. Thrombolytics are medications that can dissolve blood clots, making them effective in treating a thrombus lodged in the pulmonary artery. They work by activating the body's natural clot-dissolving system. Aspirin (A) is an antiplatelet drug and may prevent further clot formation but cannot dissolve an existing thrombus. Embolectomy (B) is a surgical procedure to remove a clot and is invasive, usually reserved for cases where thrombolytics are contraindicated. Heparin (C) is an anticoagulant that prevents clot formation but does not dissolve existing clots like thrombolytics do.