What are DVT and PE?

Deep vein thrombosis is a blood clot that forms in the deep veins of the body, most often in the veins below the knee.  They may also form in the upper legs, arms and abdomen.  DVTs alone are not life threatening.  If the clot breaks free and moves to the lungs, it can lodge in vessels there.  This is called a pulmonary embolism.  A PE is dangerous and can be life-threatening.  The risk of developing a PE is fairly low. 

Risk Factors

□        Increased age

□        Major surgery

□        Fracture of pelvis, hip or leg

□        Cancer and cancer treatment

□        Cardiac problems

□        Obesity

□        Birth control pills

□        Pregnancy

□        Hormone replacement therapy

□        Prior DVT

□        Little activity

□        Varicose veins

□        Blood clotting disorders

□        Diabetes

□        Central line

Prevention

When in the hospital, we work to prevent you from getting DVT or a PE.  You may be asked to:

□        Wear compression stockings or leg pumps

□        Do range of motion exercises

□        Walk

□        Use blood thinners

Signs and Symptoms of DVT

□        Pain or tenderness to area

□        Swelling, redness, or discoloration

□        Warmth of an affected area

Signs and Symptoms of PE

□        Chest pain, shortness of breath

□        Rapid pulse and/or breathing

□        Low grade fever

□        Cough, with or without blood sputum