DVT Prophylaxis in critical care

[ParrotHeadRN]

I can't remember where, but I read that ted/job stockings are falling out of favor and physicians are starting to use SCDs only. I am wondering if this is really happening anywhere, especially in critical and if so, what your protocols are. Do you always use lmw heparin unless indicated other wise?

If this is truly the case and the stockings are no longer indicated, I'd like to start doing research on it for my unit.

Thanks

[zacarias, ASN, RN]

Your risk of bleeding on Lovenox is lower than Heparin but I imagine Heparin is much cheaper than Lovenox. I think Lovenox used for general DVT prophylaxis is a poor choice. Heparin should be used. Of course for treatment of PE with adequate renal function and post Hip surgery, it's great.