13 October 2025

Today, on World Thrombosis Day, we shine the spotlight on our new nurse-led clinic that is improving outcomes for patients with venous thromboembolism (VTE) — a type of thrombosis and one of the leading causes of preventable deaths in hospitals worldwide.

Thrombosis is the formation of a blood clot (thrombus) inside a blood vessel, blocking the flow of blood. It is a major global health concern, and hospitalisation increases the risk of VTE by up to 100 times. Approximately 60 per cent of VTE cases are linked to a current or recent hospital admission.

Our Haemostasis and Thrombosis (HTH) Unit plays a key role in the management of bleeding and clotting conditions, including VTE. This year, the team has introduced a new HTH nurse-led clinic, coordinated and conducted by Clinical Nurse Consultant Trish Wise.

The clinic provides advanced practice nursing assessment and follow-up for patients with low-risk thrombosis and bleeding disorders. This model of care improves accessibility of the service for patients, ensures timely clinical reviews, and delivers education to support individuals in understanding and managing their condition.

“It’s very rewarding to see how the nurse-led clinic is helping patients better understand their condition and take an active role in managing it,” says Trish. “By providing timely follow-up and education, we’re not only improving access to care but also reducing the risk of complications. World Thrombosis Day is a reminder that VTE prevention is everyone’s business — from patients and nurses to doctors and the wider community.”

Based at the Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Centre, the clinic runs on Mondays and Fridays, and is supported by a multidisciplinary team of consultants, registrars, and nursing staff. The clinic receives referrals from across Austin Health, including the Heidelberg Repatriation Hospital and Royal Talbot Rehabilitation Centre, as well as from General Practitioners (GPs) in the community.

World Thrombosis Day aims to raise awareness of thrombosis and how health care professionals can impact patient safety and awareness of the leading cause of preventable death in hospitals. Refresh your knowledge and help us spread the word. Together, we can make a difference.