Which is a precursor to a pulmonary embolism?

a. Elevated white blood cell count
b. Deep breathing exercises
c. A long surgical procedure
d. Normothermia

ANS: C
A long surgical procedure or if the patient's knees have been raised can predispose the patient to a pulmonary embolism. Some other precursors to a pulmonary embolism include obesity, dehydration, congestive heart failure, and atrial fibrillation. Local trauma to a vein or venous disease enhances the chance of thrombus formation. Hypercoagulability may coexist with conditions such as pregnancy, fever, myocardial infarction, and some malignancies and after abrupt cessation of anticoagulant therapy.