Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Practice Test

What is a pulmonary embolism?

1. Obstruction of bronchioles

2. Obstruction of alveoli

3. Obstruction of airways

4. Obstruction of pulmonary arteries

The correct answer is: Obstruction of pulmonary arteries

A pulmonary embolism is defined as the obstruction of pulmonary arteries, typically caused by blood clots that travel to the lungs from the deep veins in the legs or other parts of the body. This blockage prevents blood from reaching the lung tissue, which can severely impact the body's ability to receive oxygen and circulate blood effectively. When a pulmonary artery is obstructed, the affected area of the lung cannot participate in gas exchange, leading to decreased oxygen levels in the blood and increased pressure in the right side of the heart. This condition can cause symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, and, in severe cases, can lead to collapse or death. The other options do not accurately describe pulmonary embolism, as they pertain to different respiratory issues. Obstruction of bronchioles, alveoli, or airways relates more to conditions like asthma or pneumonia, which involve the smaller air passages or the air sacs in the lungs, rather than the vascular obstruction seen in a pulmonary embolism.