Unseen but present danger: improving the safe prescribing of anti-embolism stockings (AES)

A strong evidence base exists supporting thromboprophylaxis for venous thromboembolism (VTE) in surgical patients. Given the ageing population, obesity epidemic, and rise in type 2 diabetes, VTE and peripheral vascular disease (PAD) are likely to become an escalating problem. PAD is a contraindication to the use of anti-embolism stockings (AES). Half of those patients diagnosed with PAD report no symptoms, potentially underestimating its prevalence. Implementation of guidelines for thromboprophylaxis, including the safe prescribing of AES, is therefore imperative. The aims of this project were to establish whether thromboprophylaxis was being prescribed correctly, and appropriately, to all surgical inpatients. This included documented evidence that peripheral pulses had been examined - and, in the case of diabetic patients, that there was documentation of full peripheral neurovascular examination - before AES were prescribed. Data were collected from case notes of all surgical inpatients. Foundation year 1 doctors (FY1s) completed a questionnaire assessing their knowledge of local guidelines. Teaching sessions and posters summarising local guidelines were delivered to FY1s. Appropriate pharmacological prescribing improved from 57.69% to 100%. AES were appropriately prescribed for 65.38% of patients. Post intervention this increased to 79.17%. 0% had documented peripheral neurovascular examination. This increased to 50% post intervention.