Using critically appraised topics to inform nursing practice in DVT prevention using graduated compression stockings

This article describes how critically appraised topics (CATS) were adapted to support clinicians and managers in evidence-based decision making and how clinical uncertainty can be reduced using this system. The critically appraised topic has been adapted from the original CATS developed in Canada in 1995 [Sauve, et al., 1995. The critically appraised topic: a practical approach to learning critical appraisal. Ann. Roy. Soc. Phys. Surg. Canada. 28, 396-398] and from the centre for evidence-based medicine in Oxford. Our illustrative example relates to the use of anti-embolic stockings in reducing the risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), now more usually called venous thromboembolism, in a range of patient groups including orthopaedic patients.