Effect of Implementing Nursing Educational Protocol on Reducing Deep Venous Thrombosis among Orthopedic Surgery Patients

Abstract

Background: Deep venous thrombosis is a most prevalent problem for orthopedic surgery patients. Nurses have been shown in the literature to play a significant role in reducing the incidence of deep venous thrombosis. Range of motion exercises increase blood flow to the lower extremities, and early mobilization has been shown to improve outcomes. Nurses are crucial in integrating these activities into their patients' regular care plans. Future research should concentrate on efforts to enhance nursing compliance with this exercise program .Aim of the study: To evaluate the effect of implementing nursing educational protocol on reducing deep vein thrombosis among orthopedic surgery patients. Research design: Quasi experimental research design was utilized to conduct this study (study and control group). Subjects: A purposive sample of 72 patients (36 patients for each group study and control). Setting: This study was carried out in orthopedic department and orthopedic outpatient clinic at Minia University Hospital. Tools of data collection: Demographic and medical sheet, the Autar DVT risk assessment scale and Deep vein thrombosis evaluation sheet. Results: There was a statistical significant difference between study and control groups regarding the occurrence of DVT especially Left limb DVT p.value (0.027*) after application of the nursing educational protocol. There were highly statistically significant differences between study and control groups regarding signs and symptoms of DVT in calf muscle regarding redness, swelling and absence of signs of DVT with p.value (0.012*, 0.001**, and 0.002**) respectively. While in thigh muscle presence of swelling show a statistical significant difference with p.value (0.005**) between the two groups. There was a statistical significant difference between study and control groups regarding the occurrence of DVT especially Left limb DVT p.value (0.027*) after application of the nursing educational protocol. Conclusion: Application of educational protocol was effective in reducing DVT among orthopedic surgery patients. Recommendations: Applying elastic stocking, exercising and range of motion had a positive effect on reducing incidence of DVT among orthopedic surgical patients. The in-service educational training program that illustrates purposes and benefits of applying elastic stocking, exercising and range of motion is very important.