What should an EMT suspect in a patient with sudden dyspnea and chest pain, along with low oxygen saturation despite supplemental oxygen?

In a patient presenting with sudden dyspnea, chest pain, and low oxygen saturation despite receiving supplemental oxygen, a pulmonary embolism is a critical condition to consider. A pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot travels to the lungs' arteries, blocking blood flow and leading to impaired gas exchange. This can result in rapid onset of symptoms such as shortness of breath and chest pain, which aligns well with the patient's condition.

Additionally, in the context of a pulmonary embolism, the patient's oxygen saturation may remain low even when supplemental oxygen is provided because the underlying issue is not a lack of oxygen in the environment but rather a disruption in the blood's ability to transport oxygen efficiently due to blocked pulmonary circulation. Thus, the situation warrants immediate medical attention to potentially prevent life-threatening complications.

Understanding this scenario is crucial for EMTs, as recognizing the signs and symptoms of a pulmonary embolism can facilitate timely intervention and enhance patient outcomes.