A Pharmacist-Initiated Method to Improve Venous Thromboembolic Prophylaxis Rates in Medically Ill Patients

Abstract

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is among the most preventable causes of hospital death; however, there is a significant underuse of VTE prophylaxis. The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of a pharmacist-initiated screening method on VTE prophylaxis rates. Clinical pharmacists practicing in an internal medicine teaching service at an academic medical center conducted a 6-month pilot project. Consecutive patients admitted to the service were screened for VTE and bleeding risk factors. Pharmacists made recommendations to the physicians in person, provided monthly educational presentations, and monitored patients daily until discharge to confirm continued appropriateness of recommendations. Of the 444 patients who were screened, 107 were identified to be candidates for VTE prophylaxis, and 21 of these patients also had bleeding risk factors. Appropriate use was significantly better after the screening intervention (37% before vs 85% after; P < .05). Moreover, inappropriate use in patients with bleeding risk factors was avoided by the screening intervention (29% before vs 0% after; P < .05). Clear improvements in VTE prophylaxis rates were observed. This pharmacist-initiated screening method presents unique opportunities for pharmacists.