Which statement about thromboembolism prophylaxis is true?

• A. Risk assessment guides pharmacologic and mechanical prophylaxis
• B. All patients receive pharmacologic prophylaxis
• C. Mechanical measures alone
• D. Prophylaxis not needed in low-risk

Answer: (A)

The key idea here is that prevention of thromboembolism is personalized based on how likely a patient is to form clots versus how likely they are to bleed. By assessing overall risk, clinicians decide not only whether to use drugs to prevent clots but also whether mechanical methods are needed. In practice, a higher risk of VTE prompts use of pharmacologic prophylaxis (such as subcutaneous anticoagulants) in addition to mechanical measures like compression devices. If a patient has a high bleeding risk or contraindications to anticoagulants, the plan may rely more on mechanical protection; conversely, even some low-risk patients will still receive targeted prophylaxis if the situation warrants. This balanced, risk-guided approach is why the statement about risk assessment directing both pharmacologic and mechanical prophylaxis is true.