Use and wear of anti‐embolism stockings: a clinical audit of surgical patients

The objective of this study was to determine if anti‐embolism stockings are fitted and worn according to evidence‐based guidelines in surgical patients. The methodology is that an observational study was undertaken during January and February, 2010. An audit tool was constructed for the recording of information on a variety of parameters relating to the correct fitting and wearing of anti‐embolism stockings. The results show that eighty surgical patients were audited with a mean age of 66 years. Of these, 72·5% were ambulatory; 38·75% of patients had incorrect presentation of their stockings; 29% were fitted with the incorrect size for limb measurement and 70% of patients reported not receiving any information regarding the reason for anti‐embolism stocking use. Written information was not received by 100% of participants. For 82·5% of participants deep vein thrombosis (DVT) risk was not recorded. The garment size fitted (and/or limb measurement) was not recorded for 100% of patients. Daily routine skin inspection was noted for 29%. The findings of this study showed that anti‐embolism stockings were not fitted and worn according to evidence‐based guidelines. The author recommends a new recording tool be developed to ensure consistency of assessment and documentation regarding risk assessment, contraindications identification, and education and monitoring of patients wearing anti‐embolism stockings.