Authors (including presenting author) :
Wong CH(1)(2), Lee CH(1)(2), So HM(1)(2)(3), Chan YY(1)(2), Li SC(1)(2), Kwan YFE(1)(2)
Affiliation :
(1)Department of Intensive Care, (2)Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital, (3)Hong Kong East Cluster
Introduction :
Graduated Compression Stockings (GCS) and Sequential Compression Device (SCD) are types of non-pharmacological measures used to prevent venous thromboembolism (VTE). ICU patients are at high risk for developing VTE as a result of prolonged immobilisation. It had become a standard practice to apply GCS and SCD devices to ICU patients unless contraindicated. However, prior to the application of GCS and SCD for patients, several measurements are needed including measurement of patient’s thigh and calf circumference, knee length and leg length. Then these measurements must be checked against the sizing table provided by the manufacturer to determine an appropriate size of GCS and SCD for patients. This 2 steps approach is certainly time consuming and non-user-friendly. It might lead to an unnecessary delay in the application of these preventive devices. Therefore, a “Two-in-one color code measuring tool” was designed to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of selecting appropriate GCS and SCD size.
Objectives :
To enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of selecting appropriate GCS and SCD size for patients in ICU.
Methodology :
-Reviewed the current method of sizing GCS and SCD in ICU. -Designed a “Two-in-one color-code measuring tool” for sizing GCS and SCD. Invited physiotherapist for input. -Trial run on the “two-in-one color code measuring tape” and revised as required -Staff opinion survey to gather staff opinion on the measuring tape after the implementation of the new tool. Two survey questions were formulated: Is the measuring tape easy to use? Are you satisfied with the measuring tape for GCS & SCD measurement?
Result & Outcome :
The new measuring tool for sizing GCS and SCD had been put into clinical use since May 2018. 82% of staff (70) participated in the survey. All reported that the appropriate size of GCS and SCD could be obtained using a “two-in-one measuring tool”. All nurses were satisfied with the new tool for its efficiency and user-friendly design.
This tailor-made color-coding measuring tape is a simple and reliable tool that can be efficiently and effectively used for the selection of appropriate GCS and SCD for ICU patients. More importantly, this “one step approach” tool greatly enhances the compliance of applying appropriate size of GCS and SCD for patients in an instant manner.
