Venous thromboembolism can be a life threatening condition that often requires both acute and longer-term anticoagulation. Managing anticoagulation in VTE patients and preventing VTE in hospitalized patients has been a staple of clinical pharmacy services for a long time, so you are very likely to encounter these patients in nearly any practice setting. After this session, you should have the knowledge and tools to confidently approach these clinical scenarios.
Learning objectives
1) Describe the risk factors associated with VTE
2) Provide examples of each of the three components of Virchow’s triad
3) Describe the relationship between DVT and PE
4) Develop a therapeutic plan, including drug, duration, and monitoring, for the initial management of a patient with pulmonary embolism based on patient specific factors and severity of illness
5) Recommend an appropriate duration of anticoagulation for a patient with the first occurrence of a provoked DVT and modifiable risk factors
6) Develop an appropriate plan for VTE prophylaxis based on patient specific factors and estimated level of risk for developing VTE