Translating Research on Venous Thromboembolism into Practice

Abstract

EVIDENCE-BASED NURSING PRACTICEincorporates the best research available with clinical expertise. It can be difficult, however, for nurses to integrate use of evidence into their everyday work. THIS ARTICLE PROVIDES an example of using research findings to implement best nursing practice for patients at risk for venous thromboembolism (VTE). Remaining current on methods to prevent and treat VTE is essential for nurses throughout the hospital but is especially important in the perioperative environment. NURSES CAN USE THIS EXAMPLE as a basisfor establishing evidence-based practice in other patient care situations. AORN J 86 (October 2007) 590-602. © AORN, Inc, 2007. ABSTRACT 3.0 © AORN, Inc, 2007indicates that continuing education contact hours are available for this activity. Earn the contact hours by reading this article and taking the examination on pages 603-604 and then completing the answer sheet and learner evaluation on pages 605-606.You also may access this article online at http://www.aornjournal.org.

Pediatric Laparoscopy

“…Problems with coagulation ordinarily are treated using a pharmacological approach (eg, low molecular weight heparin) 16–18 . Guidelines for the use of anticoagulation therapy vary from patient to patient.…”

“…Thromboembolic disease (TED) hose and pneumatic sequential compression devices (SCDs) help decrease venous stasis by applying external compression to the legs 16–18 . The application of SCDs in pediatric patients is determined on an individual basis; TED hose and SCDs may not be available for pediatric patients of all ages and sizes.…”

The diagnostic accuracy of magnetic resonance venography in the detection of deep venous thrombosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

“…This is crucial in the diagnosis of DVT for the obese patient, where thicker lower limbs and excessive fat tissue obscure the view of pelvic veins. 14,16,17 Sampson et al 16 explored the accuracy and benefits of MRV in a systematic review and meta-analysis in 2007. To the authors' knowledge, this is the only literature review that has been conducted on this specific topic to date.…”

“…7,13 X-ray venography has similar limitations to contrast-enhanced CT venography and only evaluates a single draining venous system with each venous puncture. 13,14 MRV has been suggested as a non-invasive diagnostic tool for confirming the presence of DVT. This may benefit special populations with inadequate venous access, as in the morbidly obese patient.…”

Evaluation of a nurse‐led intervention to improve adherence to recommended guidelines for prevention of venous thromboembolism for hip and knee arthroplasty patients: A quasi‐experimental study

“…Previous studies indicate nurses have a critical role in promoting patient assessments and maintaining sustainability with the implementation of clinical practice guidelines. Improving nurse and patient adherence to adopting these guidelines can impact on patient health outcomes and contribute significantly to reducing VTE and its associated complications (Autar, ; Cantrell, Ward, & Van Wicklin, ; Collins et al., ; Findlay, Keogh, & Cooper, ; Fleck, Donovan, & Blank, ; Gibbs, Fletcher, Blombery, Collins, & Wheatley, ; Larkin, Mitchell, & Petrie, ; Morrison, ).…”