Thromboprophylaxis discharge risk assessment for lower limb immobilisation (Guidelines)

TAM (Treatments and Medicines) NHS Highland
NHS Highland

Audience

  • All NHS Highland
  • Primary and secondary care
  • Adults only

Providing safe, evidence-based care for patients with lower limb immobilisation

Why this Matters

  • Patients with lower limb injuries are at an increased risk of VTE
  • Targeted thromboprophylaxis can safely reduce risk by 50%
  • Standardises risk assessment and thromboprophylaxis decisions
  • Supports patient safety and clear documentation

Risk assessment:

Raigmore Emergency Department: VTE Thromboprophylaxis Risk assessment

Patient information: 

Training video for staff

*Click image to access video (NHS Highland intranet access required).

Further information for healthcare professionals

 

Abbreviations

  • BMI: body mass index
  • c/o: commencement of
  • DOAC: direct oral anticoagulant
  • ED: emergency department
  • DVT: deep venous thrombosis
  • HRT: hormone replacement therapy
  • LMWH: low molecular weight heparin
  • PE: pulmonary embolism
  • POP: progesterone only pill
  • TTH: to take home
  • TRiP: Thrombosis risk prediction
  • TILLI: thromboprophylaxis in lower limb immobilisation after injury
  • TILLIRI: thrombosis in patients with lower limb injuries requiring immobilisation
  • WB: weight bearing
  • VFC: virtual fracture clinic
  • VTE: venous thrombo embolism

Editorial Information

Last reviewed: 30/04/2026

Next review date: 30/04/2029

Author(s): Emergency Department.

Version: 1.1

Approved By: TAM Subgroup of the ADTC

Reviewer name(s): Dr M Rennie, Consultant Emergency Medicine.

Document Id: TAM762