Statement 7: VERIFY THE PATIENT IS TAKING AN ANTICOAGULANT.
When a patient has a recently diagnosed LE DVT, the physical therapist should verify if the patient is taking an anticoagulant medication, what type of anticoagulant medication, and when the anticoagulant medication was initiated. (Evidence Quality: V; Recommendation Strength: Theoretical/foundational)
Action Statement Profile
Aggregate Evidence Quality: Level V
Benefit: Decreased risk of a PE in patients who are adequately anti-coagulated
Risk, Harm, Cost: Risk of bleeding with anticoagulation, risk of adverse effects with restrictions in inactivity, and cost of new anticoagulants may be prohibitive in those with inadequate pharmacy insurance coverage.
Benefit-Harm Assessment: Preponderance of benefit over harm
Value Judgments: Intentional Vagueness: This clinical practice guideline has provided therapeutic ranges for anticoagulants that have been provided by the manufacturers due to the limited evidence beyond this. While the recommendation strength is weak based upon scientific evidence, the GDG considers it prudent to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Role of Patient Preference: Patients should be informed of the importance for continuing anticoagulation upon discharge from the hospital as different anticoagulants require monitoring, cost, and modification of diet and bleeding risk.
