Therapeutic and Prophylactic Vena Cava Filters

First Things First (assess & treat for the following)

  • If the patient has had a pulmonary embolism (PE), is the patient stable?
    • Impaired gas exchange due to V:Q mismatching: administer supplemental oxygen for hypoxemia
    • Decreased cardiac output secondary to right ventricular outflow obstruction: intravenous fluids, vasopressors and/or inotropes as indicated

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Last updated: May 5, 2010