🩺 Enhancing Patient Care: VTE Prophylaxis in the Emergency Department

Oct 2, 2025

2 min read

Publication Announcement

I’m excited to share my recent publication in the Journal of Emergencyy Nursing, Enhancing Patient Care: Venous Thromboembolism Prophylaxis in the Emergency Department. This article provides an evidence-based clinical update on preventing venous thromboembolism (VTE), one of the leading but most preventable causes of morbidity and mortality in hospitalized patients.

Why VTE Prevention Matters in the ED

Delays in VTE prophylaxis can double the risk of blood clots and increase complications such as length of stay, morbidity, and mortality. Prolonged ED stays, system barriers, and staffing shortages often contribute to these delays. Early recognition and timely intervention in the emergency department are critical to improving patient safety.

What the Article Covers

✔️ Risk factors – including high-risk patient populations (such as those with cancer, infections, or immobility) and hospital-related risks (missed prophylaxis doses, prolonged stays).

✔️ Treatment strategies – from anticoagulants like heparin and warfarin to direct oral anticoagulants, plus mechanical methods such as sequential compression devices (SCDs).

✔️ System challenges – barriers like workflow interruptions, limited supplies, and delayed orders that impact real-time prevention.

✔️ Nursing role – emergency nurses are often the first to assess patients, perform early risk assessments, and provide critical patient education on VTE prevention.

Key Takeaway

Preventing VTE in the emergency department requires a multidisciplinary, system-wide approach. Standardized protocols, effective nurse-led assessments, and patient-centered education all contribute to safer outcomes and reduced preventable harm.