What medication is likely to be prescribed for a pregnant client with a pulmonary embolism upon discharge?

Low Molecular Weight Heparin (LMWH) is typically the medication of choice for a pregnant client diagnosed with a pulmonary embolism upon discharge. During pregnancy, anticoagulant therapy is crucial to prevent complications while ensuring the safety of both the mother and the fetus. LMWH is preferred because it has a more favorable safety profile compared to other anticoagulants, as it does not cross the placenta to a significant extent, thus minimizing the risk of fetal bleeding or other complications.

LMWH is also convenient for outpatient treatment, as it can be administered via subcutaneous injection and does not require frequent monitoring of coagulation parameters, unlike unfractionated heparin. This aspect makes it especially suitable for managing conditions like pulmonary embolism in pregnant individuals, who may need anticoagulation therapy for an extended period.

In contrast, the other medications listed—Warfarin, Rivaroxaban, and Apixaban—are contraindicated during pregnancy. Warfarin is known to cross the placenta and can adversely affect fetal development, particularly during the first trimester. Rivaroxaban and Apixaban, both direct oral anticoagulants, have limited data on their safety and efficacy during pregnancy, and their use is generally not recommended due to potential risks to