Which finding may indicate a pulmonary embolism in a patient?

A rapid onset of shortness of breath is a key indication of a pulmonary embolism (PE). This condition occurs when a blood clot travels to the lungs, blocking blood flow and leading to a variety of symptoms. The abrupt nature of the shortness of breath aligns with the fact that a PE can cause immediate respiratory distress as the affected individual struggles to obtain adequate oxygen due to reduced lung perfusion.

In patients with a pulmonary embolism, other symptoms might also manifest, but they may not be as characteristically representative of the condition. For instance, fever and chills typically suggest an infection rather than a blockage of blood vessels. Chest pain with a cough may be seen in various pulmonary conditions, including pneumonia or a pleural effusion, but it is less specific for PE. Sudden limb swelling is more indicative of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), which can lead to a pulmonary embolism but does not identify the embolism itself.

Thus, the rapid onset of shortness of breath serves as a critical warning sign of PE and necessitates immediate medical evaluation and potential intervention.