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Melody Wilding
Essential Insights contributor, healthcare writer
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Contributor
Melody Wilding
Essential Insights contributor, healthcare writer
Multiple clinical trials have demonstrated that IPC devices can help reduce VTE. A 2015 CLOTS study found that "IPC is an effective and inexpensive method of reducing the risk of DVT and improving survival in immobile stroke patients." Another randomized, controlled trial of 151 intracerebral hemorrhage patients tested the usage of compression stockings compared to IPC devices. DVT was detected at day 10 in 16% of patients wearing elastic stockings alone. Elastic stockings combined with IPC was associated with a reduced relative risk of DVT (0.29) at a 95% confidence interval (0.08 to 1.00).
IPC significantly decreased the occurrence of asymptomatic DVT for patients with intracerebral hemorrhage.
Here are a few elements worth considering:
According to one study , "the results suggest that the sequential compression device is as effective as heparin during the period when it is used (the first 24 hours after operation) and more effective than a non-sequential device in preventing deep venous thrombosis proximal to the calf."
Uniform sleeves have a bladder that compresses only the patient's calf. In a survey, 63% of nurses said uniform sleeves needed to be re-positioned somewhat often to ensure they are placed directly behind the calf.*
Chest guidelines recommend IPC devices that are:
In this light, consider whether:
* Internal survey available upon request.
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VTE awareness is important both during pregnancy and after delivery. To help decrease VTE incidence rates, several major health organizations have published treatment guidelines.
For pregnant women, increased VTE risk makes assessment and preventative prophylaxis even more important.
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