Download or read book Implementing Change in the Prevention of DVT Through Standardization of Risk Assessment written by Sandra Davidson and published by . This book was released on 2013 with total page 0 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Research studies show hospitalized patients are at increased risk for venous thromboembolism (VTE) which is a frequently encountered serious and potentially fatal complication. VTE also referred to as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is the formation of a blood clot or other form of emboli in in the deep veins, most commonly occurring in the lower extremities, usually deep within the calf, but they may also occur in the upper extremities and pelvic region and is the most common preventable cause of death that occurs in the hospital setting. Because studies have shown that the use of low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) significantly reduces the chance of developing DVTs while compression stockings and intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) devices have been shown to be helpful in increasing circulation in the lower extremities, physicians are currently is the practice of ordering one, a combination of two, or all three of these preventative methods. Currently at Salem Health no standard of practice or policy is in place for determining the most appropriate method of DVT prophylaxis based on the individual patient's needs and/or risk factors. Therefore the question is this: Do patients need both the chemical therapy of LMWH and the mechanical IPC device therapy to prevent DVTs, is LMWH alone enough or would an individualized risk assessment tool be a better alternative for determining the appropriate intervention? Implementation of change in current unstandardized methods to a standardized evidence-based plan would incorporate the use of the Caprini risk assessment model (RAM) which evaluates the individual's needs by taking into consideration the patient's age, type of surgical procedure or trauma and the presence of other risk factors (Caprini,2005). Furthermore, by also making the RAM available to nurses as an educational resource to guide the physician/RN collaboration process improvement of patient safety and outcomes can undoubtedly be attained.