Authors (including presenting author) :
Chan Man Hei
Affiliation :
CHAN MAN HEI
Introduction :
Introduction
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a significant complication in geriatric hip fracture patients,
with delayed diagnosis increasing the risk of pulmonary embolism and mortality. Current
clinical practice is hindered by a lack of reliable nursing-led assessment tools and long
waiting times for Doppler ultrasound.
Objectives :
Objectives
This project aims to address the service gap by implementing and evaluating a nurse-led DVT
assessment protocol utilizing the Wells Criteria and point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS).
Methodology :
Methodology
A pilot study was conducted from July to September 2024 at Queen Mary Hospital
department of Orthopaedics & Traumatology. Geriatric hip fracture patients admitted during
this period were screened using the Wells Criteria on admission and post-operatively (Day 1
or 2). Patients also underwent bedside portable doppler ultrasound performed by trained
nurses using a standardized three-point lower limb scanning protocol. Designated surgeons
will screen the ultrasound videos.
Result & Outcome :
Results
Among 42 patients screened, 28.6% were categorized as high-risk post-operatively by Wells
Criteria. Pre-operatively, the high-risk group constituted 2.4% (1/42), while the low-risk
group constituted 97.6% (41/42). No DVT cases were screened via Doppler ultrasound
during preoperative or postoperative scans in the high-risk group.
