To identify and complement the triggering factors of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Method: The study is based on a literary review with a qualitative approach, with publications between 2010 and 2019 indexed in the Lilacs, Scielo, and Virtual Health Library (VHL) databases, totaling 11 articles. Conclusion: Thromboembolic disease is responsible for a high rate of morbidity and mortality. The prevalence of VTE remains unreasonably high, as it is an avoidable condition.