Checklist for DVT prophylaxis in medical patients:

Use low molecular weight heparin (Clexane 40 mg/day) or low dose unfractionated heparin (5000 U bd or tds) until resolution of acute medical illness or until hospital discharge

High risk

• Ischemic stroke (favor LMWH over LDUH)
   
• History of venous thromboembolism
   
• Active cancer
   
• Decompensated cardiac failure
   
• Acute on chronic inflammatory disease
   
• Acute on chronic lung disease*
   
• Age > 60 years*

*While patients aged over 60 years are currently classified as high risk, those who are otherwise well and ambulant and younger patients with acute on chronic lung disease may not be at high risk of VTE in the absence of other risk factors.

Source: The Australia & New Zealand Working Party on the Management and Prevention of Venous Thromboembolism Best Practice Guidelines (4th edition)