What is the expected treatment for a patient with a suspected pulmonary embolism?

Supplemental oxygen is a crucial treatment for a patient with a suspected pulmonary embolism (PE) because it addresses the potentially life-threatening hypoxemia associated with this condition. When a pulmonary embolism occurs, blood flow to the lungs is obstructed, which can lead to decreased oxygen exchange and significant drops in oxygen saturation levels. Administering supplemental oxygen helps ensure that the patient receives adequate oxygen, improving tissue oxygenation and potentially stabilizing the patient while further diagnostic and therapeutic measures are taken.

While other treatments might be necessary depending on the severity of the embolism, the immediate priority is to address any hypoxia. Nebulized bronchodilators may be useful in conditions characterized by bronchospasm but are not the focus in a PE. Mechanical ventilation may be indicated in severe cases of respiratory failure, but it is not a first-line treatment for a suspected PE. Intravenous fluids may be administered for volume resuscitation if the patient is hypotensive, but this does not directly address the hypoxemia, which is the most critical concern. Thus, supplemental oxygen is the most appropriate and expected initial treatment for a patient with a suspected pulmonary embolism.