Preventing Blood Clots

Yes. Around 1 in every 1,000 people in the general population will experience a blood clot each year. You may have heard of DVT in people after long flights hospital stays can carry a similar risk.

Upon admission, your healthcare team will assess your personal risk and recommend measures to reduce it.

While any adult admitted to hospital is at some risk, certain factors can increase this, such as:

• Undergoing surgery
• Previous blood clots
• Genetic clotting conditions (e.g. Factor V Leiden)
• Being overweight
• Limited mobility
• Use of oestrogen-based contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
• Major trauma or injury

• Compression Stockings (Anti-embolism Stockings): These improve blood flow in your legs. You'll be shown how to wear them correctly and asked to report any discomfort or skin changes.
• Calf Pumps (Inflatable Sleeves): These wrap around your legs or feet and automatically inflate to help circulate blood when you're in bed or seated for long periods.
• Blood Thinners (Anticoagulants): You may be given medication to help reduce your risk of clots. If you need to continue this at home, you’ll be given clear instructions.

Note: Some blood thinners are derived from animal products. Please let your doctor know if this is a concern.
 

Before Coming to Hospital

• Speak with your doctor about stopping any oestrogen-based medications (e.g. contraceptives or HRT) before surgery. Alternative methods may be offered.
• Stay active with regular physical activity.

While in Hospital

• Get out of bed and move as soon as you're safely able to. Always check with a nurse or physiotherapist first.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.

• Compression Stockings: You may need to keep wearing them until you’re back to your normal level of activity. Your nurse will show you how to apply them and check your skin.
• Blood Thinner Injections: If required, your healthcare team will teach you how to safely administer these at home.
• Before leaving hospital, speak to your nurse if you have any questions or concerns. It's important to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed.

If you experience any of the following symptoms after discharge:

• Swelling, redness, or pain in your leg
• Chest pain or shortness of breath
• Coughing up blood
• If you notice any symptoms of a possible blood clot at home, seek medical advice straight away either from your GP, your specialist, or your nearest Emergency Department.