What is the most common finding on EKG for a patient with a pulmonary embolism?

In cases of pulmonary embolism (PE), sinus tachycardia is the most common finding on an electrocardiogram (EKG). This tachycardia occurs as a physiological response to low blood oxygen levels and the stress on the cardiovascular system due to the obstruction of pulmonary blood flow. The heart compensates by increasing the heart rate in an attempt to maintain adequate cardiac output and perfusion to vital organs.

The presence of sinus tachycardia serves as a significant indicator for clinicians to consider potential PE, especially when accompanied by other clinical signs such as dyspnea, chest pain, or hypoxemia. While other arrhythmias may be observed in patients with PE, they are not as prevalent as sinus tachycardia, making it a key EKG finding to recognize in the context of this condition.