VENOUS THROMBOEMBOLISM PROPHYLAXIS: APPLYING GRADUATED COMPRESSION STOCKINGS

Course overview

Graduated compression stockings (GCS; also called gradient stockings, TED [Thrombo Embolic Deterrent] hose, and anti-embolism hose) are knee-, thigh-, or waist-high garments worn to compress the leg veins, thereby reducing venous stasis, edema, and the formation of venous leg ulcers and thrombi (i.e., blood clots) within the leg veins (i.e., deep vein thrombosis [DVT]). Prevention of DVT is crucial because, once formed, thrombi within the leg veins can enter the general circulation and cause pulmonary embolism (PE) and other ischemic events. This continuing education module is designed to give the reader/learner an increased understanding of how to apply GCS in the clinical setting. Readers may explore any or all of the topics. One contact hour of continuing education credit is available for those who successfully complete the post-test and evaluation form.