Treatment of pulmonary embolism

Abstract

Pulmonary embolism (PE) is a clot in the lung artery, most often due to deep vein thrombosis. It can be difficult to detect and may result in death. The severity of PE and the patient’s presentation drive treatment selection and the care plan. Massive PE is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment with thrombolytics, anticoagulants, and/or surgery; nonmassive PE may be treated in an outpatient setting. In patients with this diagnosis, pharmacists have a major role in assessing and monitoring therapy, providing patient and caregiver education, and assisting with prior authorization and procurement in the community.