Hospitals in pursuit of excellence

Preventing Hospital-acquired Venous Thromboembolism

A multidisciplinary team was formed to increase the rate of risk assessment and appropriate therapy for VTE prophylaxis. Evidence-based resources were used. The physician order form was evaluated for effectiveness and ease of use. A Plan-Do-Study-Act analysis was performed and areas for improvement were identified. Revised VTE prophylaxis order forms and a standardized checklist for use by all nursing units were developed and implemented. A "VTE Prophylaxis Guide" chart divider was created and implemented. Staff and physicians were educated and audits were completed to evaluate effectiveness. A review revealed improvement in all targeted areas.

This case study is part of the Illinois Hospital Association's annual quality awards. Each year, IHA recognizes and celebrates the achievements of Illinois hospitals in continually improving and transforming health care in the state. These hospitals are improving health by striving to achieve the Triple Aim--improving the patient experience of care (including quality and satisfaction); improving the health of populations; and reducing the per capita cost of health care.

Award recipients achieve measurable and meaningful progress in providing care that is:

• Safe
• Timely
• Effective
• Efficient
• Equitable
• Patient-centered

(The Institute of Medicine's six aims for improvement.)