Which therapy is commonly used in the treatment of pulmonary embolism?

• A. Oxygen therapy
• B. Thrombolytics (streptokinase, urokinase, tPA)
• C. Anticoagulants
• D. Analgesics for chest pain

Answer: (C)

The main concept being tested is that anticoagulation is the standard treatment for pulmonary embolism. Anticoagulants prevent further clot formation and stopping new clots from developing while the body's own fibrinolytic system works to break down the existing clot. This approach reduces the risk of clot propagation and recurrent embolism, improving outcomes for most patients. Oxygen therapy may be used to correct low oxygen levels but does not dissolve or prevent clots. Thrombolytics are reserved for massive PE with instability because of the bleeding risk, so they’re not the typical first-line therapy. Analgesics address pain but don’t affect the clot. Therefore, anticoagulants are the best answer.