Vte Prophylaxis Case Study Nursing

Survey suggests that VTE prophylactics are poorly implemented within the Australian hospital, therefore putting more patients at risk. Providing evidence-based practice to improve on this current issue should raise awareness. Nurse plays a vital role in assessing if VTE prophylaxis is suitable and improving this by ensuring that the patients are getting the right treatment in prevention of VTE. By informing the patient on how VTE can be prevented and the options available, they will be more aware of how the benefit will outweigh the risk in the long term. With good clinical care and appropriate timing, methods of pharmacological and mechanical prophylaxis will promote the prevention of VTE. Pharmacological prophylactics such as anticoagulants are vastly used in preventing VTE in …show more content…
Evaluating on the effectiveness of the pharmacological prophylaxis would give an indication if the treatment should be continued or stopped if the risk of VTE is already ruled out. If there is not any contraindication identified, they are able to take anticoagulants to prevent thrombus formation. If contraindications are identified such as haemorrhage or stroke, the use of pharmacological prophylactic should be avoided. It certainly does not suggest that they are not able receive prophylaxis, but other form of prophylactic could be used such as mechanical. Mechanical prophylaxis uses compression devices that are placed securely on the thigh, calf or foot. It is inexpensive and should be applied to all risk patients that is undergoing surgery and should be kept on post surgery. Thromboembolic deterrent (TED) stockings are an example of prophylaxis that is applied prior to surgery to maintain external muscle force. The nurse must ensure that it is fitted correctly to serve its purpose and educating the patient what the reasoning is as to why it is