Venous thromboembolism (VTE) comprises both deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). DVT occurs when a blood clot forms inside a vein deep in the leg, causing leg pain and swelling. A blood clot in a leg vein can grow, break off, and travel to the lungs, resulting in shortness of breath, chest pain, and, in some cases, death. Clots that travel to the lungs are called pulmonary emboli. VTE is one of the most common and preventable complications of hospitalization. The rate of hospital-acquired VTE, if a thromboprophylaxis is not used, is 10–40% after general surgery and 40–60% after hip surgery.
Let’s take action.
Reduce incidents of VTE by following eight key steps:
- Secure senior leadership commitment.
- Form a VTE prophylaxis team or teams.
- Define the problem and set aims.
- Map out project timelines and accountabilities.
- Collect baseline data.
- Introduce methods to optimize adherence.
- Collect and submit data.
- Review results and revise implementation strategies if necessary.
Download the Getting Started Kit to learn more.
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- Enrol in Safer Healthcare Now!
- Update your enrolment to show us what you’re working on.
- Measure your results.
- Join the Communities of Practice