Which of the following is NOT listed as a treatment for pulmonary embolism?

• A. Supplemental oxygen
• B. Vasopressors
• C. Antibiotics
• D. Anticoagulants

Answer: (C)

Treating a pulmonary embolism focuses on supporting oxygen levels, stabilizing blood pressure if needed, and preventing further clots while the body dissolves the existing one. Supplemental oxygen helps keep the blood saturated with oxygen because a PE can reduce the lung’s ability to transfer oxygen. Vasopressors are used when the patient is critically hypotensive to maintain blood pressure and ensure organs stay perfused. Anticoagulants are the mainstay because they stop new clots from forming and give the body a chance to break down the clot that’s already present. Antibiotics, on the other hand, target bacteria and are not a treatment for a clot or the mechanical blockage in the lung. They would only come into play if there’s a concurrent infection such as pneumonia or septic emboli, not for the embolism itself.