City Hospitals Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust

“the Trust has undertaken the following actions: 1) We have reviewed the hospital information system, known as MEDITECH V6 to find a solution to prevent further risk for patients who on assessment are at risk of developing a venous thromboembolism episode (VTE). The proposal is for the VTE assessment screen to automatically move to the prescription screen if a patient has been identified as being at risk. The medical staff will be required to complete the prescription for the thromboprophylaxis”

“2) We have introduced a new format for clinical handover of patients from the Acute Medical Unit to their base ward. This acuity handover tool is patient focused and highlights key indicators regarding the patient's healthcare needs, and treatment plan.”

“3) Communication between the pharmacy team and escalation of omissions is currently the subject of an internal review where the team are in the process of identifying workable solutions.”

“4) The Trust has a VTE policy based on NICE guidelines and we are currently reviewing the policy to encompass the technical changes made to the VTE assessment and prescribing process. We will hold a Trust wide clinical symposium in the autumn to ensure staff have the opportunity to discuss current issues regarding the management of patients at risk of VTE.”