Bedside insertion of inferior vena cava filters

Certain types of injuries make a patient more at risk for the development of a DVT or PE. Because the condition of such patients is critical, the treatment options are limited, and special attention is required so as not to cause further harm. Bedside procedures that preclude the need to transport a patient to another department offer clear advantages. By describing a tested clinical procedure--percutaneous insertion of the IVC filter--trauma nurses can gain a better understanding of how to prepare the patient, expedite the process, and provide ongoing nursing management.