Thromboembolic deterrent (TED) stockings
OVERVIEW
- compression stockings aka TEDs
USE
- DVT prophylaxis in immobile patients
DESCRIPTION
- Below knee or thigh length
- washable
- closed or open toe design
- provide graduated compression (10–20 mmHg) to promote venous return
- Various sizes – sizing is based on calf circumference and limb length
METHOD OF USE
- Thumbs placed inside the tops and the stocking is gathered up
- stocking placed over the foot and adjusted at the toe area
- stocking is then pulled up while avoiding twisting and overstretching
CONTRA-INDICATIONS
- severe peripheral vascular disease (PVD)
- peripheral neuropathy
- severe peripheral oedema
- soft tissue diseases including dermatitis, cellulitis or a recent skin graft
- major lower limb injuries
COMPLICATIONS
- Pressure areas and ulcers if poorly fitted
- inadequate function if incorrectly sized or too loose
- falls risk if the patient mobilises on a slippery surface
- DVT if inappropriately used alone in high risk patients
OTHER INFORMATION
- thigh length may be superior for DVT prophylaxis
Critical Care
Compendium
Chris is an Intensivist and ECMO specialist at The Alfred ICU, where he is Deputy Director (Education). He is a Clinical Adjunct Associate Professor at Monash University, the Lead for the Clinician Educator Incubator programme, and a CICM First Part Examiner.
He is an internationally recognised Clinician Educator with a passion for helping clinicians learn and for improving the clinical performance of individuals and collectives. He was one of the founders of the FOAM movement (Free Open-Access Medical education) has been recognised for his contributions to education with awards from ANZICS, ANZAHPE, and ACEM.
His one great achievement is being the father of three amazing children.
On Bluesky, he is @precordialthump.bsky.social and on the site that Elon has screwed up, he is @precordialthump.
| INTENSIVE | RAGE | Resuscitology | SMACC