Osmosis video - Venous thromboembolism (VTE): Nursing process (ADPIE)

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a condition where blood clots form in the veins, typically in the legs or pelvis, and can travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism (PE).

There are three main factors that lead to abnormal formation of clots, which are known as the Virchow's triad. They include venous stasis; a state of hypercoagulation; and damage to the endothelial cell lining. Venous stasis is said when blood doesn't flow appropriately in the veins due to prolonged periods of physical inactivity. Endothelial injury can occur when there is an injury or trauma to a blood vessel such as in trauma or surgery; and finally, hypercoagulable states can be seen in certain conditions like cancer and pregnancy.

Symptoms of VTE can include pain, swelling, warmth, and redness in the affected area, as well as shortness of breath, chest pain, and coughing up blood in the case of PE. The treatment involves thrombolytics to help break down the clot, or a thrombectomy, which is an intervention that aims to surgically remove the clot. Long-term treatment to prevent future thrombi from forming can include staying physically active, wearing compression stockings, and anticoagulant medications like warfarin or heparin.