Venous thromboembolism is a medical term that refers to deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Deep vein thrombosis is a clot in a deep vein, usually in the leg. Pulmonary embolism occurs when a clot breaks free from a vein wall, travels to the lungs and blocks the blood supply. This largely preventable condition is a common complication in hospitalized patients. This is due to hypercoagulability, venous stasis of the lower extremities and endothelial injury. Thromboprophylaxis is indicated in medical patients with any of the following risk factors: age, medical comorbidities, obesity, smoking, major surgery, cancer, pregnancy, use of hormone replacement therapy, immobility, previous episode of venous thromboembolism or family history of venous thromboembolism. Prophylaxis with heparin has been shown to significantly reduce pulmonary embolism in hospitalized patients. It is recommended to administer subcutaneous low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) or intravenous unfractionated heparin (UFH). Latest guidelines include new oral anticoagulants in recommendations for venous thromboembolism prophylaxis. Despite the evidence demonstrating significant benefit, studies have shown that many hospitalized patients still do not receive appropriate thromboprophylaxis.