The Shocking Stocking Audit…

Venous Thrombo Embolism (VTE) is a collective term for both Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). A DVT is a blood clot in the deep veins of the leg. A PE is when all or part of the DVT breaks off, travels... [ view full abstract ]

Venous Thrombo Embolism (VTE) is a collective term for both Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). A DVT is a blood clot in the deep veins of the leg. A PE is when all or part of the DVT breaks off, travels through the body and blocks the pulmonary arteries. Most hospital-acquired VTE occur AFTER discharge – the average DVT after surgery is on day seven, the average pulmonary embolism is on day 21. TEDS are clinically proven to reduce DVT by 50% and to promote increased blood flow velocity in the legs. TEDS have been clinically proven to prevent the damaging effects of venous distension that occurs during surgery and hospitalisation.

Aims and Objectives:
• To determine if current practice is adhering to the recommended guidelines regarding TED Stocking use, application and documentation for patients admitted to the operating room for surgery
Methodology:
• This concurrent audit was undertaken by the Clinical Nurse Manager 2 in the General Operating Theatre over a 4 week period.
• Data was collected on 30 surgical procedures.
• Information was gathered on:
(a) Type of surgery
(b) Was patients leg measurements taken
(c) Was patients leg measurements recorded in the nursing notes
(d) Was patient given information on TEDS post operatively
(e) Did patient put TEDS on lying down

Findings from this audit provided information on TEDS use. It highlighted failings in the measuring for TEDS and nursing documentation. It identified poor practice. There needs to be an increased awareness about national and international guidelines regarding the use and application of TEDS. Because DVT, and the follow-up complication of PE are preventable, nursing assessments and follow-up interventions for patients at risk for DVT while hospitalised are essential (Deagle et al, 2005).