Authors

  1. Wilson, Kathleen
  2. Devito, Dawnmarie
  3. Zavotsky, Kathleen Evanovich
  4. Rusay, Mitch
  5. Allen, Megan
  6. Huang, Stephanie

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to describe in detail how an academic hospital system took on the challenge of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) prevention. A VTE Prevention Task Force was formed in response to an increased incidence of hospital acquired DVTs. The interdisciplinary team reviewed the literature and examined the current state of organizational venous thromboembolism (VTE) prevention to identify gaps in process, determine opportunity and approaches for practice and process improvements, and develop standardized VTE prevention protocols. The article discusses the process taken in developing a highly motivated interdisciplinary team, the implementation of a care bundle, and the highly effective educational and surveillance tools used that helped improve patient outcomes by driving down the VTE rate.