Computerized alerts to prevent blood clots in hospitalized patients

Randomized Controlled Trial of Computerized Decision Support for Prevention of Venous Thromboembolism in Hospitalized Medical Patients Across the Continuum of Care (DC-eALERT)

NA · Brigham and Women's Hospital · NCT03728166

This study is testing if using computer alerts can help doctors give blood clot prevention medication to hospitalized patients who are at risk.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment400 (estimated)
Ages40 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorBrigham and Women's Hospital (other)
Locations1 site (Boston, Massachusetts)
Trial IDNCT03728166 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of an electronic alert-based decision support tool in increasing the prescription of extended-duration thromboprophylaxis for hospitalized medical patients at risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). The study will involve 400 patients who are 40 years or older and hospitalized for acute medical illnesses, focusing on those who are not currently prescribed thromboprophylaxis. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either the computerized alerts or standard care without alerts. The goal is to improve patient outcomes by ensuring high-risk patients receive appropriate preventive treatment before discharge.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are hospitalized patients aged 40 and older with acute medical illnesses who are at risk for VTE and not currently prescribed thromboprophylaxis.

Not a fit: Patients who are already prescribed thromboprophylaxis at hospital discharge will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce the incidence of VTE in hospitalized patients, improving patient safety and outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown success with computerized decision support tools in improving clinical outcomes, suggesting potential for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

-≥40 years of age, are hospitalized for acute medical illness (heart failure, respiratory failure, infectious disease, rheumatic disease, or ischemic stroke), have reduced mobility, are not prescribed thromboprophylaxis at hospital discharge, and have one additional risk factor for VTE:

* Age ≥60
* Prior VTE OR
* History of cancer

Exclusion Criteria:

\- Prescribed thromboprophylaxis at hospital discharge

Where this trial is running

Boston, Massachusetts

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Venous Thromboembolism, venous thromboembolism, prevention, medical patients, hospital discharge

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.