Limitations of the Wells Score
A meta-analysis of 51 studies has shown that the overall assessment of clinical probability of DVT by use of the Wells score is more useful than any of the individual components comprising the score, with a negative likelihood ratio (0.25, 95% CI 0.21-0.29) similar to that of an empirical assessment.
Nevertheless, when the population to be assessed contained a large percentage of elderly patients or those with a prior DVT or other comorbidities, as might occur in a primary care setting, the performance of the Wells criteria was reduced.
Therefore, it seems prudent that the Wells criteria are used to complement rather than displace the clinician's empirical assessment.
Procedure
After completing the Medical History section of the admission profile in SCM, the DVT score will pop up with the risk level
The nurse can order the DVT/VTE Nursing protocol based on risk level without finishing the admission profile
Low Risk (DVT Score 1)
Activity- early ambulation
Moderate Risk (DVT Score 2)
Antiembolism Stockings/Devices- Bilateral SCD’s (Sequential Compression Device), or if not available order TED’s stockings unless contraindicated.
(CONTRAINDICATION: Ischemic vascular disease, ulceration, local inflammation, trauma to the legs, and acute/superficial DVT)
High Risk (DVT Score 3 or MORE)
Notify physician – with DVT score 3 or more to consider prophylaxis.
See DVT/VTE Prophylaxis Anticoagulation order set