Which of the following is a primary goal of pharmacologic and mechanical DVT/PE prophylaxis?

• A. Prevent thromboembolism based on risk.
• B. Treat established DVT only.
• C. Avoid any prophylaxis.
• D. Focus only on infection prevention.

Answer: (A)

Preventing thromboembolism by identifying who is at risk and applying preventive measures is what pharmacologic and mechanical DVT/PE prophylaxis is all about. Pharmacologic options use anticoagulants at preventive doses to reduce clot formation, while mechanical methods (like compression devices) promote venous blood flow to prevent stasis. The goal is to lower the incidence of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism in patients who are at increased risk, especially after surgery or during immobilization, rather than treating an established clot. That’s why this option fits best: it focuses on preventing thromboembolism based on risk.

Prophylaxis is not about treating a known DVT or PE, which is a separate therapeutic process. It also isn’t about infection prevention, which involves a different set of strategies.