Assessment of Knowledge and Practice Associated Factors of Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) Prophylaxis Among Health Professionals–A Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide, which is a term referring to blood clots in the veins; venous thromboembolism includes deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) (CDC, 2020a). DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep veins, usually in the lower leg, thigh, or pelvis; pulmonary embolism occurs when a clot breaks loose and travels through the bloodstream to the lungs (NHLBI, 2022). “DVT + PE = VTE: DVT and PE are collectively referred to as VTE”. Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a leading cause of postoperative morbidity; among hospitalized patients, it is a common and potentially fatal complication. Knowledge, positive attitude, and effective practice on VTE prophylaxis are vital for the proper management of patients. Material and Methods: A web based survey was conducted across, India. The researchers collected 71 responses from various health care professionals working at various hospitals of India using designed and developed Google forms along with analysis provided by the technology. The current paper provides snapshot of some of the factors associated with venous thromboembolism (VTE) among health professionals. Result:The Google forms were completed; with 53.5% (n=75) responses were poor in knowledge questionnaire and 75.7% (n=106) had poor knowledge related to preventive practice’s. The researchers enlisted several factors like prolonged standing, long working hours, stressful interpersonal interaction, poor amenities and time constrained self care deficit. Conclusion: It was concluded that there is need for a planned intervention to increase the knowledge of health care professional and plan alternative educational programmes that would impact effectively in reducing venous thromboembolism (VTE) among health care professionals.