Modes of failure in venous thromboembolism prophylaxis (26 February 2022)

Summary

Hospital-acquired venous thromboembolism (VTE) continues to be a significant source of preventable patient harm. This study from Richie et al. retrospectively examined patients admitted with VTE and found that only 15% received correct risk stratification and appropriate management and treatment. The case review found that patients were commonly incorrectly stratified, received incorrect pharmaceutical treatment, or inadequate application of mechanical prophylaxis (e.g., intermittent compression).