DOI: 10.36347/sjams.2014.v02i06.128

Pages: 3484-3493

Background: Thromboprophylaxis is essential for preventing blood clots in ICU patients, reducing risks of severe complications like pulmonary embolism. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate compliance rates with thromboprophylaxis protocols in ICU settings and analyze their impact on VTE incidence and patient outcomes. Method: A one-year observational study was conducted in an ICU with a sample of 100 patients. Compliance with pharmacologic (e.g., anticoagulants) and mechanical thromboprophylaxis (e.g., compression devices) was documented. Data were collected from patient records and analyzed for adherence, VTE incidence, and length of ICU stay. Results: Of the 100 ICU patients, 72% (n=72) adhered to thromboprophylaxis protocols. Pharmacologic compliance was 65% (n=65) and mechanical compliance was 85% (n=85). Among compliant patients, VTE incidence was significantly lower at 3% (n=2), compared to 15% (n=4) in the non-compliant group. Patients adhering to both pharmacologic and mechanical prophylaxis had the lowest VTE rate at 1.4% (n=1). Compliance was associated with a shorter ICU stay, averaging 6.5 days compared to 9 days for non-compliant patients, representing a 27.8% reduction in ICU stay duration. Additionally, ICU readmission rates were lower among compliant patients (5%) than non-compliant patients (12%). Conclusions: Enhanced thromboprophylaxis compliance significantly reduces VTE incidence, ICU stay duration, and readmission rates, underscoring its importance for ICU patient safety.