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DVT Prophylaxis: Pathophysiology & Nursing Prevention Role

Comprehensive guide to Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) prevention, Virchow’s Triad, risk assessment, and pharmacological vs. mechanical prophylaxis for nurses.

#dvt-prophylaxis#nursing-education#virchows-triad#venous-thromboembolism#medical-presentation#patient-safety
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DVT Prophylaxis
Deep Vein Thrombosis — Prevention, Pathophysiology & The Nurse's Role
By the end of this session, you will have better knowledge and understanding of the risk, pathophysiology, treatment and the nurse's role in DVT prevention.
Nursing Education Presentation | 2026
Made byBobr AI
Session Overview
Topics we will cover today
1
What is DVT?
2
Pathophysiology of DVT — Virchow's Triad
3
DVT Signs & Symptoms
4
Prophylaxis Treatment Options
5
The Nurse's Role in DVT Prevention
6
Importance of DVT/VTE Prevention
7
Short Quiz
8
Questions & References
Nursing Education Presentation | 2026
Made byBobr AI
What is DVT?
DVT
Deep Vein Thrombosis — a blood clot that forms in the deep veins, usually in the legs but sometimes in the arms.
VTE
Venous Thromboembolism — an umbrella term encompassing both DVT and pulmonary embolism (PE).
PE
Pulmonary Embolism — a blood clot that travels to the lungs, potentially life-threatening.
!
DVT affects approximately 1–2 per 1,000 people per year. PE is responsible for up to 10% of all hospital deaths.
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Pathophysiology of DVT
Virchow's Triad
Hypercoagulable
State
  • • Malignancy
  • • Pregnancy & peri-partum
  • • Oestrogen therapy
  • • Trauma/surgery (lower extremity/hip/abdomen/pelvis)
  • • IBD
  • • Nephrotic syndrome
  • • Sepsis
  • • Thrombophilia
Vascular Wall
Injury
  • • Trauma or surgery
  • • Venepuncture
  • • Chemical injury
  • • Heart valve disease/replacement
  • • Atherosclerosis
  • • Indwelling catheters
Venous/Circulatory
Stasis
  • • Atrial fibrillation
  • • LV dysfunction
  • • Immobility or paralysis
  • • Venous insufficiency/
    varicose veins
  • • Venous obstruction
    (tumour/obesity/pregnancy)
Source: Research Review NZ / HQSC
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High Risk Patient Factors
Patient-specific factors that increase VTE risk
Age over 60
Pregnancy & Puerperium
Active Cancer / Malignancy
Cancer Treatment
Previous VTE
Varicose Veins
Marked Obesity
Prolonged Immobility
Oestrogen HRT / OCP
Inherited Thrombophilia
Acquired Thrombophilia
Acute Chest Infection
Heart Failure
Myocardial Infarction
Stroke with Immobility
Cancer Chemotherapy
Acute IBD
Surgery (Abdominal/Pelvic/Thoracic/Orthopaedic)
Leg Injury Requiring Surgery
Prolonged Immobilisation
Source: HQSC VTE Prevention Programme — National Policy Framework v3
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DVT Signs & Symptoms
Deep Vein Thrombosis
Swelling (usually one leg or arm)
Leg pain or tenderness — often described as a cramp
Reddish or bluish skin discolouration
Warmth to the touch
Pulmonary Embolism (PE)
If DVT travels to the lungs...
Sudden shortness of breath
Chest pain — sharp and stabbing, worsens with deep breath
Rapid heart rate
Unexplained cough, sometimes with bloody mucus
⚠️ Suspect PE? This is a medical emergency — act immediately.
Source: stoptheclot.org
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Prophylaxis Treatment Options
Pharmacological
Low Molecular Weight Heparin (LMWH)
— e.g. Clexane (Enoxaparin)
Unfractionated Heparin
Factor Xa Inhibitors
— e.g. Rivaroxaban
Warfarin
Direct Thrombin Inhibitors
— e.g. Dabigatran
Aspirin
Mechanical
🔵 Sequential Compression Devices (SCDs / Calf Pumps)
Uses air pump to create sequential pulses of compressed air, inflating/deflating sleeve from ankle upward — mimics natural calf muscle contractions promoting venous return.
⚠️ Contraindicated: Peripheral arterial disease, arterial ulcers
🔵 Antiembolism Stockings (TEDs)
Apply graduated pressure — greatest at ankle, decreasing upward. Require accurate measurements for proper fit.
⚠️ Contraindicated: Severe leg oedema, skin graft, dermatitis, morbid obesity, severe PAD, diabetic neuropathy, severe limb deformity
🔵 Foot Pumps
Stimulate the venous plantar plexus — imitate physiological pumping action of weight-bearing, increasing blood circulation.
⚠️ Contraindicated: Peripheral arterial disease, arterial ulcers
Source: HQSC VTE Prevention Programme
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The Nurse's Role in DVT Prevention
A Structured Approach to Thromboprophylaxis
1
Assess Mobility & Baseline VTE Risk
On admission to hospital
2
Assess Additional Risks
Related to hospitalisation or illness
3
Assess Bleeding Risk
Identify contraindications to pharmacological and mechanical prophylaxis
4
Weigh Risk vs Benefit
Consider the patient's risk of prophylaxis against the benefits
5
Select Appropriate Prophylaxis
Choose the correct modality or combination if required
6
Inform the Patient / Caregiver
Discuss risks and the treatment plan
7
Reassess Regularly
Re-evaluate VTE and bleeding risk within 24–48 hrs of admission, then periodically as clinical condition changes
Source: HQSC VTE Prevention Programme — National Policy Framework v3
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VTE Risk Assessment
Understanding What Influences Risk Level
VTE risk level is influenced by multiple factors related to the patient's surgery, illness, and clinical condition.
Type of Surgery
Abdominal, pelvic, and orthopaedic surgeries carry higher risk.
Type of Anaesthesia
General vs. regional anaesthesia affects risk profile.
Duration of Immobility
Longer immobility = greater stasis = higher risk.
Duration of Surgery
Prolonged procedures increase coagulation activation.
Surgical Complications
Unexpected complications can significantly elevate risk.
Risk assessment should be performed on admission and reassessed regularly throughout the patient's stay.
Source: HQSC VTE Prevention Programme
Made byBobr AI
Why DVT/VTE Prevention Matters
Leading Preventable Cause
VTE is one of the most common preventable causes of hospital death worldwide
PE Risk
Untreated DVT can progress to pulmonary embolism, which can be fatal
Post-Thrombotic Syndrome
Chronic leg pain, swelling, and ulcers can develop if DVT is left untreated
If DVT goes untreated...
DVT
➔
Clot Grows
➔
Embolises
➔
Pulmonary Embolism (PE)
➔
Respiratory Failure / Death
Long-Term Complications if Untreated
Post-thrombotic syndrome, chronic venous insufficiency, recurrent DVT, reduced quality of life
Prevention is Key
Early assessment, timely prophylaxis, patient education, and regular reassessment can prevent these outcomes
Made byBobr AI
Summary
Key Takeaways from Today's Session
1
What is DVT?
DVT is a blood clot in deep veins (legs/arms). Can lead to life-threatening PE if untreated.
2
Virchow's Triad
Three factors drive DVT: Hypercoagulability, Vascular Wall Injury, and Venous Stasis.
3
Signs & Symptoms
Watch for swelling, pain, discolouration, warmth in limbs. PE = chest pain, SOB, rapid HR.
4
Treatment Options
Both pharmacological (heparin, rivaroxaban, warfarin) and mechanical (SCDs, TEDs, foot pumps) options exist.
5
The Nurse's Role
Structured assessment, prophylaxis selection, patient education, and regular reassessment are essential.
6
Prevention Saves Lives
Early, consistent VTE prophylaxis prevents deaths and long-term complications.
Early assessment + appropriate prophylaxis = better patient outcomes.
Made byBobr AI
Quick Quiz! 🧠
Let's test your knowledge
1
What does DVT stand for?
2
Name the three components of Virchow's Triad.
3
What are two mechanical methods of DVT prophylaxis?
4
Name two contraindications to antiembolism stockings (TEDs).
5
When should a nurse first reassess a patient's VTE and bleeding risk after admission?
Discuss answers as a group — there are no wrong attempts!
Made byBobr AI
Questions?
Thank you for your attention. Please feel free to ask any questions about DVT, prophylaxis, or the nurse's role in prevention.
References
1.
Research Review NZ — World Thrombosis Day Webinar Review. researchreview.co.nz
2.
Health Quality & Safety Commission NZ (HQSC) — VTE Prevention Programme: National Policy Framework, Version 3. hqsc.govt.nz
3.
National Blood Clot Alliance — Signs and Symptoms of Blood Clots. stoptheclot.org
All sources accessed 2026.
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DVT Prophylaxis: Pathophysiology & Nursing Prevention Role

Comprehensive guide to Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) prevention, Virchow’s Triad, risk assessment, and pharmacological vs. mechanical prophylaxis for nurses.

DVT Prophylaxis

Deep Vein Thrombosis — Prevention, Pathophysiology & The Nurse's Role

By the end of this session, you will have better knowledge and understanding of the risk, pathophysiology, treatment and the nurse's role in DVT prevention.

Nursing Education Presentation | 2026

Session Overview

Topics we will cover today

What is DVT?

Pathophysiology of DVT — Virchow's Triad

DVT Signs & Symptoms

Prophylaxis Treatment Options

The Nurse's Role in DVT Prevention

Importance of DVT/VTE Prevention

Short Quiz

Questions & References

Nursing Education Presentation | 2026

What is DVT?

DVT

Deep Vein Thrombosis

— a blood clot that forms in the deep veins, usually in the legs but sometimes in the arms.

VTE

Venous Thromboembolism

— an umbrella term encompassing both DVT and pulmonary embolism (PE).

PE

Pulmonary Embolism

— a blood clot that travels to the lungs, potentially life-threatening.

DVT affects approximately 1–2 per 1,000 people per year. PE is responsible for up to 10% of all hospital deaths.

Pathophysiology of DVT

Virchow's Triad

Source: Research Review NZ / HQSC

High Risk Patient Factors

Patient-specific factors that increase VTE risk

Source: HQSC VTE Prevention Programme — National Policy Framework v3

Age over 60

Pregnancy & Puerperium

Active Cancer / Malignancy

Cancer Treatment

Previous VTE

Varicose Veins

Marked Obesity

Prolonged Immobility

Oestrogen HRT / OCP

Inherited Thrombophilia

Acquired Thrombophilia

Acute Chest Infection

Heart Failure

Myocardial Infarction

Stroke with Immobility

Cancer Chemotherapy

Acute IBD

Surgery (Abdominal/Pelvic/Thoracic/Orthopaedic)

Leg Injury Requiring Surgery

Prolonged Immobilisation

DVT Signs & Symptoms

Deep Vein Thrombosis

Swelling (usually one leg or arm)

Leg pain or tenderness — often described as a cramp

Reddish or bluish skin discolouration

Warmth to the touch

Pulmonary Embolism (PE)

If DVT travels to the lungs...

Sudden shortness of breath

Chest pain — sharp and stabbing, worsens with deep breath

Rapid heart rate

Unexplained cough, sometimes with bloody mucus

⚠️ Suspect PE? This is a medical emergency — act immediately.

Source: stoptheclot.org

Prophylaxis Treatment Options

Pharmacological

Mechanical

Source: HQSC VTE Prevention Programme

The Nurse's Role in DVT Prevention

A Structured Approach to Thromboprophylaxis

Assess Mobility & Baseline VTE Risk

On admission to hospital

Assess Additional Risks

Related to hospitalisation or illness

Assess Bleeding Risk

Identify contraindications to pharmacological and mechanical prophylaxis

Weigh Risk vs Benefit

Consider the patient's risk of prophylaxis against the benefits

Select Appropriate Prophylaxis

Choose the correct modality or combination if required

Inform the Patient / Caregiver

Discuss risks and the treatment plan

Reassess Regularly

Re-evaluate VTE and bleeding risk within 24–48 hrs of admission, then periodically as clinical condition changes

Source: HQSC VTE Prevention Programme — National Policy Framework v3

VTE Risk Assessment

Understanding What Influences Risk Level

VTE risk level is influenced by multiple factors related to the patient's surgery, illness, and clinical condition.

Type of Surgery

Abdominal, pelvic, and orthopaedic surgeries carry higher risk.

Type of Anaesthesia

General vs. regional anaesthesia affects risk profile.

Duration of Immobility

Longer immobility = greater stasis = higher risk.

Duration of Surgery

Prolonged procedures increase coagulation activation.

Surgical Complications

Unexpected complications can significantly elevate risk.

Risk assessment should be performed on admission and reassessed regularly throughout the patient's stay.

Source: HQSC VTE Prevention Programme

Why DVT/VTE Prevention Matters

Leading Preventable Cause

VTE is one of the most common preventable causes of hospital death worldwide

PE Risk

Untreated DVT can progress to pulmonary embolism, which can be fatal

Post-Thrombotic Syndrome

Chronic leg pain, swelling, and ulcers can develop if DVT is left untreated

If DVT goes untreated...

DVT

Clot Grows

Embolises

Pulmonary Embolism (PE)

Respiratory Failure / Death

Long-Term Complications if Untreated

Post-thrombotic syndrome, chronic venous insufficiency, recurrent DVT, reduced quality of life

Prevention is Key

Early assessment, timely prophylaxis, patient education, and regular reassessment can prevent these outcomes

Summary

Key Takeaways from Today's Session

1

What is DVT?

DVT is a blood clot in deep veins (legs/arms). Can lead to life-threatening PE if untreated.

2

Virchow's Triad

Three factors drive DVT: Hypercoagulability, Vascular Wall Injury, and Venous Stasis.

3

Signs & Symptoms

Watch for swelling, pain, discolouration, warmth in limbs. PE = chest pain, SOB, rapid HR.

4

Treatment Options

Both pharmacological (heparin, rivaroxaban, warfarin) and mechanical (SCDs, TEDs, foot pumps) options exist.

5

The Nurse's Role

Structured assessment, prophylaxis selection, patient education, and regular reassessment are essential.

6

Prevention Saves Lives

Early, consistent VTE prophylaxis prevents deaths and long-term complications.

Early assessment + appropriate prophylaxis = better patient outcomes.

Quick Quiz! 🧠

Let's test your knowledge

What does DVT stand for?

Name the three components of Virchow's Triad.

What are two mechanical methods of DVT prophylaxis?

Name two contraindications to antiembolism stockings (TEDs).

When should a nurse first reassess a patient's VTE and bleeding risk after admission?

Discuss answers as a group — there are no wrong attempts!

Questions?

Thank you for your attention. Please feel free to ask any questions about DVT, prophylaxis, or the nurse's role in prevention.

References

Research Review NZ — World Thrombosis Day Webinar Review. researchreview.co.nz

Health Quality & Safety Commission NZ (HQSC) — VTE Prevention Programme: National Policy Framework, Version 3. hqsc.govt.nz

National Blood Clot Alliance — Signs and Symptoms of Blood Clots. stoptheclot.org

All sources accessed 2026.

  • dvt-prophylaxis
  • nursing-education
  • virchows-triad
  • venous-thromboembolism
  • medical-presentation
  • patient-safety