The knowledge of South African venous thromboembolism: prophylactic and therapeutic practice guidelines of registrars in anaesthesiology and orthopaedic surgery at the University of the Witwatersrand

Abstract

thromboembolism: Prophylactic and therapeutic practice guideline has been developed to aid clinicians with the correct administration of thromboprophylaxis. This can reduce the incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and thus the associated morbidity, mortality and socio economic implications. However, studies have shown that without other interventions, adherence to clinical guidelines is poor.

Method: A prospective, contextual, descriptive study was undertaken to determine the knowledge of registrars in anaesthesiology and orthopaedic surgery of the Venous thromboembolism: Prophylactic and therapeutic practice guideline (2013). A self-­‐-­‐-­‐administered questionnaire was developed in consultation with experts. Convenience sampling was used and all registrars present at departmental academic meetings were invited to participate.

Results: Of the participants only 12 (12%) obtained the specified pass mark of greater than or equal to 80%. Of the participants 10 (14%) of the anaesthetic registrars and 2 (7%) of the orthopaedic registrars achieved the required pass mark. Anaesthetic registrars achieved a mean score of 56% . Orthopaedic registrars achieved a mean score of 44%. Two junior registrars (4%) and 10 senior registrars (18%) achieved the required pass mark. Senior registrars scored significantly (p=0.002) higher than their junior colleagues (56% vs 48%)

Conclusion: Knowledge of The Guideline amongst registrars was poor and room for improvement and intervention in order t