The framework
The basis of thromboprophylaxis in Germany is the S3 guideline “Prophylaxis of venous thromboembolism (VTE)” with the AWMF register number 003-001. You will find a deeper placement in context on our page on the S3 guideline. This article looks at the practical side: what does the guideline mean for the hospital routine?
1. Risk stratification as the starting point
The guideline arranges the measures according to individual risk. For the ward, this means: each patient is assigned a risk profile, from which basic measures, pharmacological and/or mechanical prophylaxis are derived. Structured admission and risk-assessment processes are thus the precondition for guideline-based care.
2. Mechanical prophylaxis must be available
The intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) is firmly established as a physical procedure — particularly where pharmacological prophylaxis is contraindicated, and in combination in the high-risk setting. Guideline-based care requires that the indicated procedure can also be kept available. Device availability and plannable resupply of consumables thus become an organisational task.
3. Instruction and documentation
Safe application requires trained staff. The device instruction under §83 MPBetreibV is not only legally required, but a condition for mechanical prophylaxis to be applied correctly and consistently in everyday practice — including verifiable documentation.
What UniCare contributes
With the Phlebo Press® DVT 650 Easy, German device instruction, maintenance and guaranteed availability, the guideline’s requirements can be implemented reliably in the ward routine. The goal always remains the same: fewer VTE complications and more patient safety.
Frequently asked questions
Which guideline applies to thromboprophylaxis?
The decisive document is the S3 guideline “Prophylaxis of venous thromboembolism (VTE)” (AWMF 003-001); the current version dates from 2026. Always decisive is the current version published in the AWMF register.
Does the guideline prescribe a particular product?
No. The guideline assesses procedures and grades of recommendation, not individual products. It places mechanical prophylaxis (including IPC) in context according to risk stratification.
What does this mean organisationally for the ward?
Guideline-based care requires that the respective indicated measure is available, maintained and correctly applicable — that is, device availability, documented instruction and plannable resupply.