Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) Prevention Policy

Introduction

Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) is a leading and potentially preventable cause of death in hospitalised patients.

It has been estimated that up to 25000 people in the UK die from hospital associated VTE each year, many if not most of which could be prevented by the use of appropriate thromboprophylaxis as indicated by the outcome of a detailed thrombosis risk assessment performed on admission and reassessed after 24 hours and as appropriate throughout the admission. A UK survey carried out in 2005, suggested that 71% of patients assessed to be at medium or high risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) did not receive any form of mechanical or chemical thromboprophylaxis.

VTE, spontaneous or precipitated, can occur in any individual. The incidence increases with age and with numerous recognised risk factors including: hospitalisation for any reason; prolonged immobility; dehydration; oestrogen containing hormonal treatment and malignancy. The presence of an underlying thrombophilia (inherited or acquired) will increase baseline risk further.

VTE encompasses a range of clinical presentations and is often asymptomatic. There is a considerable burden of mortality and morbidity associated with VTE, including: venous insufficiency; post thrombotic limb/syndrome; pulmonary hypertension.

This policy seeks to enable healthcare practitioners at ASPH to identify patients at risk of developing VTE and select appropriate preventative treatment to reduce the mortality and morbidity associated with this disease.

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to establish the principles and practice of a high quality approach to VTE prevention throughout the Trust which meets the requirements of NICE guidance (NG89) and NICE quality standards as well as local and internal quality schedules.

Policy Details

See also:

• NICE Guideline NG89
• NICE Quality Standard QS3
• Venous Thromboembolism: Management of pregnant and Postnatal Women at Increased Risk