A nurse is reinforcing teaching to a client who has a pulmonary embolism. Which of the following should the nurse include in the teaching?

A. Any size of a pulmonary embolism is fatal: Not all pulmonary emboli are fatal. Small emboli may cause minimal symptoms and can be treated effectively with anticoagulation therapy. The severity depends on the size and location of the clot, as well as the patient’s overall health. B. There is an increased risk of bleeding: Clients treated for pulmonary embolism often receive anticoagulants to prevent further clot formation. Anticoagulation increases the risk of bleeding, so patients should be educated about signs of bleeding, including bruising, nosebleeds, or blood in stool or urine. C. Rest when experiencing symptoms of a pulmonary embolism: While rest may help reduce strain, immediate medical attention is critical if a pulmonary embolism is suspected. Symptoms such as sudden shortness of breath or chest pain require prompt evaluation rather than simple rest. D. Follow-up is not needed: Follow-up care is essential to monitor anticoagulation therapy, assess for recurrence, and evaluate for complications. Skipping follow-up can lead to inadequate treatment and increase the risk of future thromboembolic events.