Venothrombotic Events: Evidence-Based Risk Assessment, Prophylaxis, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Venothrombotic events (VTE), including deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary emboli, are a common cause of death among community-dwelling, hospitalized, and recently hospitalized outpatients. Nurse practitioners are well positioned to complete a risk assessment, initiate prophylaxis for those at risk to prevent VTE, and provide early diagnosis and treatment if VTE does occur. This article presents information about the incidence and prevalence of VTE, the importance of risk assessment and prevention, and evidence-based guidelines for prophylaxis and treatment.