68-year-old male, 2 days post-op from hip replacement surgery. History of hypertension and mild obesity. Currently on bed rest with sequential compression devices.
You are called to the patient's room. He reports sudden onset of shortness of breath and chest pain when taking deep breaths.
You arrive at the patient's room. He is diaphoretic, breathing rapidly, and clutching his chest. His pulse oximeter reads 88% on room air.
"I can't catch my breath... it hurts when I breathe in deep... please help me..."