Prophylaxis of deep vein thrombosis in the hospital environment

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the prophylactic methods used to prevent deep vein thrombosis in the hospital environment and thus reduce morbidity and mortality. Methods: This is a descriptive study, with a qualitative approach of the integrative literature review type, based on articles published in Portuguese, English or Spanish, from January 2017 to September 2022. The bibliographic survey took place in the following databases data: LILACS, SciELO and PEDro. Results: Among the main results observed in the studies included in this review on prophylactic methods for DVT in the hospital environment, it was found that prophylaxis for DVT is reliable and safe, especially encouraging early walking, use of physical therapy, use of stockings graduated compression elastic, use of prophylactic drugs, such as vitamin K and low molecular weight heparin, in addition to the use of intermittent pneumatic compression and administration of anticoagulants, which must be appropriate in view of the risks to patients. Final considerations: Despite the proven benefits of prophylactic methods for DVT, it was found that adherence to the prescription of these methods in the hospital environment is unsatisfactory, a condition that keeps patients at imminent risk of developing this disease and its complications.