Educating staff and patients

Information for staff

Resources are available to assist NSW Health clinicians understand the importance of VTE prevention and how to use state-based risk assessment tools.

These can be used during JMO Orientation, ward/unit training sessions, individual learning or refresher sessions. The resources can be used for a range of clinicians, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists or allied health. They can be adapted (with acknowledgment).

The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Healthcare has developed a variety of educational resources on using the VTE prophylaxis section of the (paper) National Inpatient Medication Chart (NIMC) including a PowerPoint presentation, poster and brochure.

Access the following resources.

  • PowerPoint presentation – to educate staff on how to use the VTE prophylaxis section
  • A3 Poster – to raise awareness of the VTE prophylaxis section
  • Brochure – to communicate the VTE prophylaxis section to staff

These posters are targeted at clinicians. They can be displayed in clinical areas to raise awareness of the preventable nature of VTE and prompt clinicians to think about the need to risk assess patients.

Information for patients

Patient should be empowered with information on the risks of VTE, how to prevent VTE and the signs and symptoms of a VTE.

All verbal communication should be accompanied with written information. The CEC has developed a patient brochure that can be used on admission or discharge. It also contains a 'going home plan' which can be completed with patients for those being discharged on VTE prophylaxis.

Preventing blood clots:
Information for patients and families

Order via Finsbury Green 1800 515 222
Stock code: NH606754 $24.13 + GST per pack of 50.

Download PDF

Women and their carers should be provided with information on the risks of VTE, how to prevent VTE and the signs and symptoms of a VTE.

The patient leaflet can be used at any time point during a women's journey. It contains a 'going home plan' for women who will be discharged on medication to prevent a VTE.

These posters are targeted at patients. These posters can be displayed in ward and other patient areas to raise awareness of the risk VTE and prompt patients to consider their risk and what is being done to reduce it during hospitalisation.