Evaluating the impact of an evidence-based standardized nursing protocol on lower-extremity deep vein thrombosis prevention in acute stroke patients: A retrospective analysis

Acute stroke remains a major global health concern, contributing significantly to mortality and long-term disability. Due to factors such as immobility, endothelial injury, and hypercoagulability, these patients face an elevated risk of developing lower-extremity deep vein thrombosis (DVT). This retrospective study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of an evidence-based standardized nursing protocol in preventing DVT among acute stroke patients, comparing its outcomes with traditional nursing approaches. We analyzed data from 176 acute stroke patients admitted to our hospital between January 2022 and December 2023. The cohort was divided into 2 groups: the intervention group (n = 84), which received structured evidence-based care involving risk stratification, pharmacological and mechanical prophylaxis, early mobilization, patient education, and close monitoring, and the control group (n = 92), which received conventional nursing care. Over a 6-month follow-up period, the incidence of DVT was markedly lower in the intervention group (2.38% vs 14.13%, P = .005). Additionally, the intervention group demonstrated significantly fewer complications, including urinary tract infections, pneumonia, recurrent stroke, and pressure ulcers (P < .05). Further, patients in the intervention group exhibited superior outcomes in neurological recovery, cognitive improvement, quality of life, and mitigation of anxiety and depressive symptoms (P < .05). These findings underscore that an evidence-based standardized nursing protocol not only reduces DVT risk but also enhances overall recovery and well-being in acute stroke patients. The study advocates for the wider implementation of such protocols in clinical practice to optimize patient outcomes poststroke.