The investigation and prevalence of pulmonary embolism among emergency department patients with acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD): A multi-centered linked administrative database study

The overall prevalence of PE among patients presenting to the ED with AECOPD was low (less than 1%). While acknowledging PE may occur concurrently with AECOPD, clinicians should be cautious to avoid over-investigation, which has a negative impact on operational flow, increases costs, and may be harmful to patients. Evidence-based pathways using information readily available at presentation and selective investigations (e.g., decision rules and AADD cut-offs) have the potential to improve resource use and facilitate shared decision-making in the acute setting.