Venous thromboembolism prevention protocol

Prevention & Management of Complications

KEIT DAY HOSPITAL

Venous thromboembolism prevention protocol

Official Manual of Clinical, Care and Organizational Protocols

1. Document Control Information

2. Scope of Application

This protocol applies to all patients undergoing surgical procedures, with the protocol adapted according to the individual risk and type of procedure.

3. Responsibilities

• Surgeon and anesthesiologist: thromboembolic risk stratification and definition of the prophylactic plan.
• Ward nurse: correct application of mechanical measures, monitoring and patient education.
• Ward physician: verification of treatment adherence and management of any suspicious signs or symptoms.

4. Operating Procedure

• Assess thromboembolic risk and bleeding risk during the preoperative phase.
• Apply antithrombotic stockings suitable for the patient before surgery.
• Administer low-molecular-weight heparin when indicated by the clinical plan.
• Use intermittent pneumatic compression or antithrombotic pumps during surgery and in the postoperative period as indicated.
• Promote hydration and assisted early mobilization as soon as clinically possible.
• Record pain, edema, asymmetry, dyspnea, tachycardia or other suspicious signs and notify the on-call physician.
• Schedule vascular follow-up for selected patients and reassess the risk at each postoperative check-up.

5. KEIT Operational Standards

• KEIT uses 75D antithrombotic stockings according to the individual clinical plan.
• Antithrombotic pumps are used intraoperatively and also in the ward during the postoperative period.
• Selected patients undergo serial lower-limb Doppler ultrasound examinations: before surgery, at discharge and during subsequent check-ups or dressing changes.
• Mobilization instructions and warning signs are clearly explained to the patient before discharge.

6. Records and Documentation

• VTE risk stratification form.
• Prescribed and administered prophylactic therapy.
• Doppler ultrasound reports when performed.
• Postoperative follow-up register.

7. Review and Updates

Periodic updates based on clinical guidelines and immediate review following any thromboembolic event or near miss.

8. Related Attachments and Forms

• Operational checklists, recording forms, audit sheets and maintenance registers applicable to this protocol.
• Any department-specific or equipment-specific technical attachments are referenced in the relevant local operating instructions.

9. Final Approval