Venous Thromboembolism Clotting Disorders

Course overview

Hypercoagulability disorder is a common clinical condition characterized by abnormal blood coagulation, resulting in the formation of blood clots within ones vasculature. Venous thromboembolism (VTE), or a blood clot found in the veins, is predominantly displayed as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE) (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2022d). DVT may result from the formation of blood clots in the peripheral vascular bed. VTE can occur in multiple sites, including the veins in the lungs, brain, kidneys, liver, mesenteric circulation, arms, and legs. The challenge in managing hypercoagulability disorders is due to the clinical variability of the disease etiology and numerous possible sites of blockage balanced against treatment objectives, outcomes, and cost. The goal of this course is to provide nurses, pharmacists, dietitians, and physicians in the acute care setting with knowledge of the concept of hypercoagulability and the various features, risk factors, and evidence-based guidelines for prophylaxis and treatment of VTE.