Reducing the risk of venous thromboembolism in patients admitted to hospital: summary of NICE guidance

Abstract

Of an estimated 25 000 deaths in England each year attributable to hospital acquired venous thromboemobolism (VTE), many are potentially preventable.1 2 Despite the substantial evidence base for the benefits of thromboprophylaxis this was used in only about half of eligible patients and many healthcare professionals seemed to be unaware of the risks.3 4 The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) published guidance on the prevention of VTE for surgical patients in 2007.5 This article summarises the most recent recommendations from NICE on VTE prophylaxis for all patients in hospital. NICE recommendations are based on systematic reviews of best available evidence. When minimal evidence is available, recommendations are based on the Guideline Development Group’s experience and opinion of what constitutes good practice. Evidence levels for the recommendations are given in italic in square brackets. (See further information box for a description of the evidence and challenges in formulating recommendations for this guidance.) ### Assessing the risks of VTE and bleeding #### Box 1 Risk factors for venous thromboembolism (VTE)