Keywords

Evidence-based practice, Nursing care, Pulmonary embolism, Venous thromboembolism

 

Authors

  1. York, Nancy L. PhD, RN, CNE
  2. Kane, Christy J. PhD, RRT-NPS
  3. Smith, Carol PhD, RN
  4. Minton, Lori A. MSN, RN

Abstract

There are evidence-based prevention strategies known to reduce the risk of pulmonary embolism formation. However, pulmonary emboli remain a leading cause of death in critically ill patients with a 3-month mortality of 10% to 15%. This article addresses patients' risk factors, pulmonary embolism prevention strategies, clinical manifestations, and treatment modalities the interdisciplinary team should understand.