If a patient is found to have a pulse oximetry reading of 82%, which condition may require urgent intervention?

A pulse oximetry reading of 82% indicates significantly low oxygen saturation levels, typically revealing a potentially life-threatening situation in a patient. Among the conditions listed, pulmonary embolism is particularly critical because it can lead to rapid deterioration of the patient's respiratory status and overall hemodynamics.

Pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot travels to the lungs, occluding a pulmonary artery and impeding normal blood flow and gas exchange. This can result in sudden onset of symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, and hypoxemia, which in this case is evidenced by the low pulse oximetry reading. The urgent intervention is needed to restore blood flow and oxygenation in the patient, making it crucial to initiate treatment that may include supplemental oxygen, anticoagulation therapy, or even surgical intervention if the embolism is large enough.

In contrast, conditions like oxygen toxicity, an aspirated object, or severe bronchitis might also require medical attention, but the immediate risk to life associated with a significant pulmonary embolism necessitates urgent action to address the compromised blood flow and oxygenation promptly.