In pulmonary embolism, which respiratory finding is commonly observed?

• A. Shortness of breath
• B. Dizziness
• C. Fever
• D. Tachypnea (RR > 20/min)

Answer: (D)

The key idea here is how the respiratory system responds to an acute pulmonary embolism. When a PE blocks blood flow in the lungs, gas exchange becomes inefficient, causing hypoxemia. To compensate, the body increases the breathing rate to bring in more oxygen and blow off carbon dioxide. This rapid breathing, or tachypnea, is a common, observable sign in many PE cases and is often one of the first clues clinicians notice on exam or in vital signs.

Shortness of breath is a very common symptom reporters notice, but tachypnea is the objective respiratory finding that reflects acute respiratory distress and is frequently documented in PE. Dizziness relates more to cerebral perfusion and is less specifically tied to the respiratory response, and fever is not a typical feature of PE unless another infection is present. So tachypnea stands out as the most typical respiratory finding in this context.