Aims: To assess compliance with NICE guidelines for venous thromboembolism (VTE) risk assessment completion and mechanical prophylaxis prescribing for acutely admitted general surgery patients in a university hospital which is also a trauma center. The guidelines state that all surgical and trauma patients should be assessed to identify the risk of VTE and bleeding as soon as possible after admission to the hospital or by the time of the first consultant review. Also, all patients might have mechanical prophylaxis unless contraindicated.

Methods: A retrospective two-cycle audit was conducted using data from handover sheets and electronic patient records (HIVE) to evaluate VTE risk assessment completion and anti-embolism stocking prescriptions for patients admitted under general surgery.

Results: In the first audit cycle, 42.86% (15/35) of patients had their VTE assessments completed during admission or within the first consultant review, and 14.29% (5/35) had anti-embolism stockings prescribed, with only 1 patient receiving stockings prescribed within admission or the first consultant review. Interventions included presenting results at departmental quality and safety meeting, posters, emails, word-of-mouth, and integration into junior doctors’ induction. A second audit cycle demonstrated significant improvements, with 97.62% (41/42) of patients having their VTE assessments completed and 95.24% (40/42) getting anti-embolism stockings prescribed during admission or by the first consultant review.

Conclusions: This audit demonstrated substantial improvement in compliance with NICE guidelines following targeted interventions. The enhanced adherence ensures better patient care and reduces risks of complications. Future efforts will focus on maintaining these standards and promoting sustained guideline adherence.

Dr. Ibrahim Abuelbeh is a Clinical Fellow in Urology in the United Kingdom. After earning a medical degree from the University of Jordan, he pursued surgical training in general surgery and then in urology, gaining extensive clinical and research experience. Passionate about improving surgical outcomes, Dr. Abuelbeh focuses on both clinical and academic aspects. Actively involved in research and education, he strives to advance urological techniques and patient care. Committed to continuous learning, Dr. Abuelbeh aims to contribute to the evolving field of urology through innovation and expertise.