Thromboembolism
Prevention of blood clots in hospitals is an important patient safety practice.
The Thromboembolism (TE) Team is well known at Sunnybrook. The team has been active since 1990 and is nationally and internationally recognized for their excellent work. The TE Team has developed practical, evidence-based protocols for prevention, treatment and investigation of thromboembolic disorders that are being used throughout the organization.
The TE Team provides consultation and recommendations to admitted patients to prevent venous thromboembolism (VTE) — deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE).
VTE refers to two serious conditions: DVT and PE.
DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in one of the large veins of the upper or lower limbs, usually in just one leg. Though DVT itself may not be life threatening, it may lead to PE.
PE occurs when the clot escapes into the circulation and becomes lodged in the lungs, obstructing the pulmonary artery or its branches, which supply the lungs with blood. If the clot is large and completely blocks a vessel, it can cause sudden death.
The TE Team, which comprises of doctors, nurses and pharmacists also run an Anticoagulant Management Clinic, which helps patients who require warfarin to monitor and manage their care.
