7 Steps for Reducing the Risk of Venous Thromboembolism at ASCs

According to a patient safety toolkit, released by AAAHC’s Institute for Quality Improvement, some procedures commonly performed in the ambulatory surgery center setting have relatively high risks for venous thromboembolism.

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Here are seven steps ACSs can take to prevent or lower the risk of venous thromboembolism:

1. Flexing the patient’s knees to approximately five degrees by placing a pillow underneath them.
2. Using elastic stockings or intermittent pneumatic compression devices.
3. Discontinuing supplemental hormones one week prior to the procedure.
4. Giving anticoagulants such as low-molecular-weight heparins two hours before the procedure.
5. Using intravenous sedation including propofol rather then general anesthesia.
6. Staging multiple procedures.
7. Early ambulation.

More Articles on Accreditation:

AAAHC Reaccredits Hunterdon Center for Surgery
AAAASF Accredits All MyLooks Clinics
AAAHC: 3 Steps to Effectively Implement Surgical Checklists in ASCs

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