Acute Pulmonary Embolism: Risk Classification and Management

At the conclusion of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Determine the guideline-recommended diagnostic pathway for a patient with suspected acute pulmonary embolism based on structured pretest probability, D-dimer results, and contraindications to imaging.

2. Identify the AHA/ACC clinical category and subcategory for a patient with acute pulmonary embolism using clinical severity scores, hemodynamic findings, perfusion markers, cardiac biomarkers, and right ventricular imaging.

3. Select the appropriate site of care and advanced-therapy candidacy for a patient assigned to a given AHA/ACC clinical category.

4. Select an anticoagulant initiation strategy and treatment duration based on agent-specific parenteral lead-in requirements and the presence or absence of persistent recurrence risk.

5. Determine the elements of a complete interprofessional escalation message and the timing and initial screening studies for evaluation of chronic thromboembolic pulmonary disease.

Acute pulmonary embolism can range from an incidental finding to impending cardiopulmonary failure. Recognizing the difference is critical, especially when a normal blood pressure masks worsening perfusion. This course explores how the 2026 AHA/ACC clinical categories (A through E) replace legacy risk labels and help clinicians assess severity and make timely, consistent decisions about treatment, monitoring, and escalation of care.

Through clinical cases, you'll work through diagnostic pathways, weigh anticoagulation options, and identify when advanced therapies should be considered. You'll also explore treatment considerations for special populations and practical approaches to team communication, discharge planning, and follow-up. The course highlights what has changed from earlier guidance and where evidence remains uncertain, helping you make informed decisions from initial presentation through recovery.