Prevention of venous thromboembolism in the older in-patient

IntroductionVTE risk assessmentRisk of bleeding Modes of prophylaxisPatient informationPharmacological prophylaxisMechanical prophylaxisMedical patientsSurgical patientsOrthopaedic patientsDischarge planningGovernanceConclusionReferences Introduction Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is an important cause of mortality for hospital in-patients.1,2,3 Clinicians are required to assess for the risk of VTE and bleeding on admission and then prescribe appropriate prophylaxis.1,3 Following this initial assessment, the risk of VTE and bleeding needs to be reassessed. Many patients may be discharged from hospital with a plan to continue VTE prophylaxis in the community; therefore, VTE prophylaxis is of importance in both hospital and community settings.  VTE risk assessment All patients admitted to hospital require an