Deep Vein Thrombosis Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Deep Vein Thrombosis, including details on dvt, prevention, effects, causes, air travel, blood clots.

A randomized trial to evaluate compliance in terms of patient comfort and satisfaction of two pneumatic compression devices.

Pagella P, Cipolle M, Sacco E, Matula P, Karoly E, Bokovoy J

Department of Trauma, Lehigh Valley Hospital, Allentown, PA, USA.

PURPOSE: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) incidence can be substantially reduced with prophylaxis, which includes pneumatic compression device (PCD) use. METHODS: To determine whether patient comfort and satisfaction correlated to compliance in wearing PCDs, patients were randomly assigned to either of two effective calf-high PCDs. Education and handouts were provided to both groups. Patients were given a survey rating their comfort, satisfaction, and compliance. At the conclusion of the study, healthcare providers completed a questionnaire comparing both PCDs. RESULTS: A total of 65 patients participated. The main significant differences between groups were seen in the patient perceptions questionnaire for two items: "the device was hot" (p = .014) and "device made my legs sweat" (p = .029). The PCD that provided more comfort and satisfaction was worn for a greater amount of time, 85% vs. 81%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Results suggest that patients are more compliant with a PCD that promotes patient comfort when worn.

Published 31 May 2007 in Orthop Nurs, 26(3): 169-74.
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