When people enter hospitals, they expect to receive treatment and get better—not to leave with a potentially fatal blood clot. Yet that’s exactly what happens to thousands of patients every year. Hospital-acquired VTE (venous thromboembolism) is one of the most common and preventable causes of hospital-related death.
The Hidden Risk in Hospital Beds
Many hospital patients—particularly those recovering from surgery or with limited mobility—are at increased risk of developing deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE). In fact, hospitalization is the number one risk factor for developing a VTE.
Clots can begin forming in the legs just hours after a patient becomes immobile. If not detected and treated early, they can travel to the lungs, leading to a PE. This can cause sudden death, often without warning.
Why Prevention Often Falls Through the Cracks
Despite clear guidelines and evidence supporting VTE prevention, many hospitals still lack standardized protocols. Some of the challenges include:
- Underestimating the risk in non-surgical patients
- Lack of consistent VTE risk assessment tools
- Inadequate education for staff and patients
- Concerns about bleeding risks with anticoagulant use
- Failure to follow up on prevention after discharge
It’s a complex problem—but a solvable one.
What the Coalition Is Advocating For
At the Coalition to Prevent VTE, we believe every hospitalized patient should receive a proper VTE risk assessment—and that hospitals should implement proven, practical strategies for prevention. Here’s what we’re championing:
- Mandatory VTE risk assessments for all admitted patients
- Use of prophylactic treatments, including anticoagulants, mechanical compression devices, and early mobilization
- Staff training programs to recognize VTE risks and ensure compliance with prevention protocols
- Patient education, so individuals understand their risks and know what signs to watch for after discharge
- Tracking and reporting of VTE cases, to hold healthcare systems accountable and drive quality improvement
The Impact of Simple Measures
Research shows that up to 70% of hospital-acquired VTE cases can be prevented with appropriate prophylaxis. Implementing hospital-wide protocols doesn’t just save lives—it also reduces healthcare costs, shortens hospital stays, and improves outcomes.
A few examples of simple, effective measures:
- Administering low-dose anticoagulants to at-risk patients
- Encouraging movement within 24 hours of surgery
- Using intermittent pneumatic compression devices for immobile patients
- Providing discharge plans that include post-hospital VTE prevention
You Can Be Part of the Solution
If you’re a healthcare professional:
- Advocate for VTE prevention in your hospital
- Ensure your patients are risk-assessed and educated
- Stay informed about the latest guidelines and clinical trial data
If you’re a patient or caregiver:
- Ask your care team about your VTE risk
- Follow prevention advice carefully, especially during recovery
- Know the warning signs and seek help immediately if they appear
Together, We Can Change the Statistics
Hospital-acquired VTE is a tragedy precisely because it is so often preventable. With awareness, education, and better clinical practices, we can turn the tide.
The Coalition to Prevent VTE is here to provide the tools, knowledge, and support to make that happen.