Preventing blood clots

• Sometimes it can help to sit upright for a few moments at the edge of your bed to help you get your balance before moving.

• Do not use hospital furniture to help you walk as this could be unstable.

For more information you can read this Get Up and Go information leaflet www.csp.org.uk/system/files/get_up_and_go_0.pdf

Preventing blood clots in hospital

Venous Thromboembolism (VTE) is the name given to a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or a pulmonary embolism (PE).

A DVT is a blood clot (thrombus) that forms in a deep vein, most commonly in your leg or pelvis and can cause pain and swelling. In the longer term, DVT can cause painful swelling and ulcers.

If the blood clot becomes dislodged, passes through your circulation and reaches your lungs it is called a PE. A PE can cause coughing, chest pain and breathlessness.

When in hospital, we will encourage you to move around if you are able and to drink plenty of fluid to keep hydrated. This will help reduce your risk of a VTE. If you are at risk, you may be asked to wear anti-embolism stockings or prescribed an anticoagulant tablet or injection, which reduces the chance of your blood clotting and stops a VTE from forming.

Sometimes VTE can develop after you have been discharged from hospital. If you think you have developed VTE after discharge, please consult your GP immediately.