NICE quality standards contain quality statements describing key markers of high-quality, cost-effective care for a particular clinical condition or pathway. These statements may focus on prevention, as well as elements of health and social care, and will promote an integrated approach to improving quality. Although these standards are not requirements or targets, the care system is obliged to have regard to them in planning and delivering services, as part of a general duty to secure continuous improvement in quality.

This quality standard focuses on venous thromboembolism (VTE) prevention – the following statements are given for this topic:

1. All patients, on admission, receive an assessment of VTE and bleeding risk using the clinical risk assessment criteria described in the national tool.

2. Patients/carers are offered verbal and written information on VTE prevention as part of the admission process.

3. Patients provided with anti-embolism stockings have them fitted and monitored in accordance with NICE guidance.

4. Patients are re-assessed within 24 hours of admission for risk of VTE and bleeding.

5. Patients assessed to be at risk of VTE are offered VTE prophylaxis in accordance with NICE guidance.

6. Patients/carers are offered verbal and written information on VTE prevention as part of the discharge process.

7. Patients are offered extended (post hospital) VTE prophylaxis in accordance with NICE guidance.

Further information, including the full standard in PDF format, details on what each statement means and implementation resources can be found at the link below.