Which of the following groups would be at increased risk for developing a pulmonary embolism?

The risk of developing a pulmonary embolism is significantly heightened in individuals who are inactive and on bedrest. This is primarily due to the lack of movement, which can lead to venous stasis—the slowing or pooling of blood in the veins. When a person is not active, especially for prolonged periods, such as during hospitalization or recovery from surgery, blood clots can form in the deep veins of the legs or other areas. If a clot dislodges, it can travel to the lungs and cause a pulmonary embolism, which can be a life-threatening condition.

In contrast, active athletes and individuals who engage in regular exercise tend to have improved circulation and reduced risk for venous stasis, making the occurrence of pulmonary embolism less likely. A balanced diet contributes to overall health but does not directly influence the risk of pulmonary embolism in the same way inactivity does. Therefore, it is the lack of movement in inactive patients on bedrest that presents the greatest risk for developing this complication.