ThromboDay

An observational study of venous thromboprophylaxis practices in European Critical Care Units 

Why is ThromboDay Important?

If you’ve ever wondered how we proceed with the thromboprophylaxis for our critically ill patients, if we follow current guidelines, or where we could improve, the ThromboDay study will interest you.

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among patients hospitalised in intensive care units (ICUs). However, there is a significant gap in knowledge regarding current practices in thromboprophylaxis among ICU patients. The ThromboDay study is crucial in addressing this gap and improving patient outcomes.

Study Objectives

Our primary objective is to acquire current data on thromboprophylaxis practice in patients admitted to ICUs, collecting information about the characteristics of patients receiving different thromboprophylaxis methods. Additionally, we aim to evaluate adherence to current thromboprophylaxis guidelines by comparing the observed results with the “ideal” standards. This will help us identify situations (patient characteristics and scenarios) where clinical practice deviates most significantly from guidelines. Identifying potential areas for improvement in thromboprophylaxis practices would contribute to a more effective implementation of the guidelines and facilitate their adherence. As it cannot be otherwise, all of this will be carried out in a context promoting practices that minimise environmental impact and optimise resource utilisation.

Study Methodology

The study is open to all ICUs in Europe. We plan to collect data on two separate days, then the enrolment period (first subject to last) spanning 10 days, with no follow-up period. As an observational, cross-sectional, no-competitive study, it aims to include all patients admitted to the participating ICUs on either of the two days of the study (patients already included on the first day will be excluded on the second day). If everything proceeds as planned, the target start date is projected for February 2025.

Besides general data, the study will collect information on the thromboprophylaxis method used (if any), both pharmacological (type of drug and dose) or mechanical (type of device). For the venous thromboprophylaxis risk stratification, we will use Caprini’s score for surgical patients, and Padua’s score for medical ones. Moreover, the risk related to the critically ill patient will be considered, including severity of illness (APACHE, SOFA), hemodynamic, respiratory, renal and haematological data, and others. For the haemorrhagic risk evaluation, factors such as age, renal or hepatic failure, coagulopathy, active bleeding, and the presence of a mechanical device (ECMO, Impella), among others, will be collected.

How Can You Get Involved?

ThromboDay presents a unique opportunity for ICUs across Europe to contribute to a comprehensive understanding of thromboprophylaxis practices. By participating, you will not only help bridge the knowledge gap but also potentially improve patient outcomes by identifying and implementing best practices in thromboprophylaxis.

We invite all interested ICUs to join us (thromboday@gmail.com). Together, we can make significant strides towards enhancing the care of critically ill patients and ensuring that our practices are both evidence-based and environmentally conscious.

Join us and make a difference!!

ThromboDay is more than just a study; it is a call to action for all European ICU professionals to come together and scrutinise our current practices. By understanding where we stand and identifying areas for improvement, we can collectively work towards better adherence to guidelines and, ultimately, better patient outcomes.

Let’s seize this opportunity to advance our knowledge and practice of venous thromboprophylaxis in critical care. Join us in making ThromboDay a success and paving the way for future improvements in patient care. Together, we can ensure that our critically ill patients receive the best possible care while optimising the use of resources and minimising our environmental footprint.

Thank you for your commitment and dedication to improving critical care practices. Let’s make a difference with ThromboDay!

Authors

• Raquel Ferrandis
• Coordinators: Juan Vicente Llau, Marc Samama, Arash Afshari