Venous thromboembolism is a leading preventable cause of morbidity and mortality among hospitalized patients. The Padua Prediction Score was developed to systematically assess the risk of VTE in acutely ill medical patients, particularly those who are immobilized. The score incorporates multiple risk factors such as active cancer, history of VTE, reduced mobility, thrombophilia, recent trauma or surgery, advanced age, heart or respiratory failure, obesity, and ongoing infections or rheumatologic conditions. By summing the weighted points, clinicians can identify patients at higher risk for VTE events like deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism.

This tool is especially valuable because many hospitalized patients have overlapping comorbidities that individually may not seem significant but collectively raise VTE risk. The Padua Score improves patient safety by guiding prophylactic anticoagulation decisions while helping to avoid unnecessary treatment in low-risk patients. Unlike surgical patients, where thromboprophylaxis is standard, medical patients often require careful risk stratification due to bleeding risks. The score provides a structured, evidence-based approach to balance prevention with safety.

Validated in large studies, the Padua Score demonstrates strong predictive ability and has been incorporated into international guidelines for hospital medicine. It highlights the importance of systematic risk assessment rather than relying on clinical impression alone. By applying this tool, clinicians can reduce hospital-acquired VTE and improve patient outcomes through timely preventive strategies.