Indian Journal of Public Health Research & Development

Abstract

Background: VTE is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in high risk surgical patients. VTE prophylaxis is recommended for approximately 60% of high-risk surgical patients and 40% of hospitalized medical patients.⁴

Objectives: The objective of the study is to assess the effect of Intermittent Pneumatic Compression Device (IPCD) versus Graduated Compression Stockings (GCS) for Venous Thromboembolism prophylaxis in high risk surgical patients

Materials and Method: An evaluative study with two group post-test only design was used to assess the effect of Intermittent Pneumatic Compression Device (IPCD) versus Graduated Compression Stockings (GCS) for Venous Thromboembolism prophylaxis in high risk surgical patients. 60 samples were taken using non-probability purposive sampling technique from selected hospitals, of which 30 were using IPCD and 30 were using GCS. The data was collected using self-structured demographic data, Caprini risk assessment scale and observation checklist.

Results: The analysis was done by using descriptive and inferential statistics. Researcher applied two sample t-tests for comparison of effects of IPCD and GCS in high risk surgical patients based on observation checklist. On first observation, average VTE risk score was 3.2 for GCS group which was 2.5 for IPCD group. On second observation, average VTE risk score was 2.9 for GCS group which was 2.1 for IPCD group. On third observation, average VTE risk score was 1.8 for GCS group which was 1.1 for IPCD group. T-values for this comparison were 1.7, 1.7 and 2 with 58 degrees of freedom. Corresponding p-values were 0.048, 0.044 and 0.023 which are small (less than 0.05), the null hypothesis is rejected. It is evident that the IPCD group had low risk of VTE which indicates that it acts as a better prophylaxis for VTE.

Conclusion: VTE can cause problems that may affect for the rest of life. One may have long-term problems with breathing, a higher chance of getting another clot and swelling that will not go away and may even lead to sudden death. It is important to check the different policies and protocol set for VTE prophylaxis and have the uniform protocols and standardization post-surgery among high risk patients in different hospitals.

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