Blood-thinning medications given before or after major abdominal operations prevent the formation of blood clots in the legs (especially the type that move to the lungs and cause problems). SCOAP hospitals are monitoring the use of these medications with a goal to get 100% delivery (excluding those who have a high bleeding or problems with these medications).
Some hospitals that are more successful at this are using protocols to make sure that all eligible patients get the medications. Some SCOAP hospitals that are underperforming on this care measure are working to improve this care measure by changing their protocols.
What can you do about this?
Ask your surgeon and nurse about their use of blood thinning medications to prevent blood clots. Encourage your surgeon to ask about their SCOAP report regarding blood thinners so they know you care!