DVT in the News
The Surgeon General calls for action to reduce DVT blood clots
On September 15, 2008, Acting Surgeon General Steven K. Galson issued a Call to Action to reduce DVT blood clots and their complications in the US. He urged all Americans to learn more about DVT blood clots as well as to take steps to prevent them. A multipart plan involving hospitals and government agencies as well as the general public, the Call to Action emphasized that, while much is known about preventing DVT blood clots, not enough is being done to put this knowledge into action. In a press release, Galson said," We want to increase the awareness and knowledge of these potentially deadly conditions and encourage patients and health care providers to take the steps to prevent them."
You can reduce your risk of DVT blood clots by taking steps to empower yourself.
- Know the facts. Did you know DVT blood clots are considered a public health crisis?
- Know the risks and warning signs. Certain medical and surgical conditions increase the risk of developing DVT blood clots.
- Know your options. What treatments are available? Ask you doctor which ones are right for you.
- Learn about LOVENOX®. It's a treatment option that's right for some people and may be right for you. Discuss LOVENOX® with your doctor and find out.
- Be proactive. Stay involved in your care. Discuss your thoughts with your doctor and voice any concerns you may have. Ask questions and ask for clear answers if you're unsure.
- Know more. Use the useful tools on this website. It's easy to order more information.
National Patient Safety Goals support reducing risk of DVT blood clots
The Joint Commission, an organization created to help hospitals treat patients safely and more effectively, has issued a series of guidelines called National Patient Safety Goals, or NPSGs. Two of these goals require hospitals to:
- Increase efforts to communicate clearly
- Involve patients in their care
- Educate patients about anticoagulation therapy and about what to expect during hospital stays
- Individualize care provided to patients receiving anticoagulation therapy
- Encourage patients to voice concerns
- Encourage patients to comply with therapy, when appropriate, after leaving the hospital
This is good news, especially if you're planning a hospital stay. In fact, these guidelines are so important that you may be asked to rate a hospital on "how well they did" at the end of a hospital stay.
Following the NPSGs also supports the Surgeon General's Call to Action and helps hospitals reduce the risk of hospital-acquired conditions, such as DVT.
