Why is this information important?
When you are unwell and in hospital your risk of having a blood clot is increased
This information will help understand what can be done to reduce this risk during and after your hospital stay.
If we have not discussed preventative measures with you, or if you have any questions about your care, please feel free to ask a member of your healthcare team.
What is a blood clot?
Blood clots are a normal way for the body to stop bleeding. However, a clot can sometimes form inside a vein. This can block blood flow and become life threatening if it travels to the lungs.
A clot in the leg is called a Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). A clot that travels to the lungs is called a Pulmonary Embolism (PE). Together, these are known as Venous Thromboembolism (VTE).
What we will do to reduce your risk:
- Complete a risk assessment when you get to hospital.
- Encourage you to keep moving and drink water regularly, if appropriate.
- If you need medication to reduce the risk of a blood clot, this will usually be tinzaparin, a blood thinning injection. It is given as an injection every day (usually in the evening). If tinzaparin is not suitable for you, for example due to allergy or religious belief, we can look at alternatives.
- Offer compression stockings or other mechanical devices if you are at risk but unable to have blood thinning medication.
- Review your risk throughout your hospital stay and before you go home, as some patients may need to continue clot prevention measures after leaving hospital.
What can I do to help myself?
- Drink regularly (unless you have been given a strict fluid limit).
- Move your feet and legs regularly if you can.
- Take any medication offered to help prevent blood clots.
- Tell a member of staff if you notice new leg swelling, leg pain, chest pain or shortness of breath.
For further information
- Ask a member of staff on the ward. Support is available from the thrombosis team if needed.
- Check out the Thrombosis UK website at https://www.thrombosisuk.org
- For further information about health conditions and treatment options, you may wish to have a look at the NHS website at https://www.nhs.uk
- Contact PALS (Patient Advice and Liaison Service) for help, advice and information about NHS services. You can contact them on freephone 0800 032 02 02, email [email protected] or https://www.northumbria.nhs.uk/patients-and-visitors/share-your-feedback/patient-and-advice-liaison-service-pals#9882d87e
- If you would like to find accessibility information for our hospitals, please visit https://www.accessable.co.uk
