Initiation of an emergency department discharge pathway for low-risk patients with venous thromboembolism: Factors impact real-world practice - Report - MDSpire

Initiation of an emergency department discharge pathway for low-risk patients with venous thromboembolism: Factors impact real-world practice

  • By

  • William B Stubblefield

  • James Barclay

  • Jesse O Wrenn

  • Doug Conway

  • Scott Nelson

  • Quinn S Wells

  • Dario Giuse

  • Zhao Zuo

  • Alexandra M Baird

  • Tyler Barrett

  • Shi Huang

  • Karen Beauchamp

  • Alan B Storrow

  • Sean P Collins

  • Joshua A Beckman

  • July 6, 2026

  • 0 min

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Implementation of a Discharge Protocol for Low-Risk VTE Patients in EDs

Background

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a significant cardiovascular disorder with increasing incidence rates. Many patients with low-risk pulmonary embolism (PE) are not treated at home despite being eligible, indicating a gap in care. Implementing standardized discharge protocols may enhance outpatient management.

Data Highlights

MetricPre-PathwayPost-Pathway
Patients DischargedX%Y%
30-Day Adverse EventsA%B%

Key Findings

  • The discharge pathway was initiated on July 1, 2016, to standardize outpatient treatment for low-risk VTE patients.
  • Approximately 30-50% of patients with PE may be classified as low risk and suitable for discharge.
  • Risk stratification tools and direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) were integral to the pathway.
  • Patient follow-up was scheduled within one week post-discharge to ensure continuity of care.
  • Adverse events were tracked to evaluate the safety of outpatient management.

Clinical Implications

The implementation of a structured discharge protocol for low-risk VTE patients can facilitate timely outpatient treatment and follow-up. This approach may help optimize resource utilization in emergency departments while ensuring patient safety.

Conclusion

The study underscores the importance of structured discharge protocols in managing low-risk VTE patients, potentially improving patient outcomes and resource efficiency in emergency care settings.

Related Resources & Content

  1. JAMA Network Open, 2020 -- Right-Sizing Thromboprophylaxis in Medical Inpatients
  2. Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine, 2026 -- Detected residual venous thrombi and catheter-directed management of intermediate-risk pulmonary thromboembolism
  3. JAMA Network Open, 2020 -- Pharmacologic Thromboprophylaxis in Medical Inpatients: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis
  4. American College of Cardiology, 2026 -- First AHA/ACC acute pulmonary embolism guideline: prompt diagnosis and treatment are key
  5. American College of Cardiology, 2020 -- HESTIA Rule vs. Simplified PESI for Home Treatment of Patients With Acute Pulmonary Embolism
  6. The ASCO Post — Expert Point of View: Fausto Roila, MD
  7. Trends in home treatment and early discharge of patients with low-risk pulmonary embolism
  8. First AHA/ACC acute pulmonary embolism guideline: prompt diagnosis and treatment are key - American College of Cardiology
  9. HESTIA Rule vs. Simplified PESI for Home Treatment of Patients With Acute Pulmonary Embolism - American College of Cardiology

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