Authors : Neelam Amrutha; P. Yashmeen Nikhat; S. N. Md Adnan; Naveen Thalari

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 3 - March

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/yh74psbp

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/pmu7b4pa

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26mar1413

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.

Abstract : Venous thromboembolism (VTE) which encompasses deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism represents a significant cause of preventable morbidity and mortality among hospitalized patients worldwide. Hospital-associated thrombosis accounts for a substantial proportion of VTE events and is often linked to prolonged immobility, surgical procedures, trauma, and underlying comorbidities. Although numerous clinical guidelines recommend routine risk assessment and implementation of prophylactic strategies, studies consistently demonstrate that thromboprophylaxis remains underutilized in many healthcare settings. Inadequate risk stratification, lack of awareness of clinical guidelines, fear of bleeding complications, and absence of standardized institutional protocols contribute to this gap in optimal care. Risk assessment models such as the Caprini Risk Assessment Model, Padua Prediction Score, and IMPROVE risk score have been developed to facilitate the identification of high-risk patients and guide prophylactic interventions. Pharmacological prophylaxis using anticoagulants, including low molecular weight heparins, unfractionated heparin, and factor Xa inhibitors, along with mechanical methods such as intermittent pneumatic compression devices, have demonstrated significant efficacy in reducing VTE incidence in high-risk patients. Despite the availability of these effective preventive strategies, implementation remains inconsistent across hospitals globally. Clinical pharmacists and multidisciplinary teams play a critical role in improving adherence to thromboprophylaxis guidelines through risk assessment, medication optimization, and monitoring. This review summarizes the epidemiology of VTE, associated risk factors in hospitalized patients, currently available risk assessment models, pharmacological and mechanical prophylaxis options, barriers contributing to underutilization, and potential strategies to improve prophylaxis utilization and patient outcomes.

Keywords : Venous Thrombo Embolism, Deep Vein Thrombosis, Pulmonary Embolism, Thrombo Prophylaxis, Risk Assessment Models, Anticoagulants, Guideline Adherence.

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