Are we preventing VTE in patients with an infective exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease - low adherence to VTE prophylaxis guidelines

• Main Author: Anmol Khanna
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Taylor & Francis Group 2016-12-01
• Series: Cogent Medicine
• Subjects: venous thromboembolism; prophylaxis prescription copd; vte guidelines; nhmrc venous thromboembolism prophylaxis guidelines
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/2331205X.2016.1242247

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a significant cause of morbidity, mortality and increased healthcare costs. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) increases risk of thromboembolism, however, there is limited documentation on compliance with VTE prophylaxis guidelines in patients admitted with an infective exacerbation of COPD. Objective: Determine compliance with National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) VTE prophylaxis guidelines in patients admitted with an infective exacerbation of COPD at a metropolitan hospital in Western Australia. Methods: A random sample of 40 patients with an infective exacerbation of COPD was audited for compliance with NHMRC VTE prophylaxis guidelines. Results: The audit highlighted nominal compliance with documentation of VTE prophylaxis risk assessment (2.5%), documentation of VTE prophylaxis contraindication (0%) and prescription of pharmacological prophylaxis (27.5%). Prophylaxis was prescribed and administered appropriately (correct agent, route & frequency) when it was considered suitable for a patient. Conclusions: There is nominal adherence to VTE prophylaxis guidelines in patients admitted with an infective exacerbation of COPD. VTE prophylaxis compliance rates are steadily increasing within the surgical specialities. This audit highlights the need for quality improvement interventions to increase VTE prophylaxis compliance in patients hospitalized with an infective exacerbation of patients.