CLinician-perfOrmed bedside ulTrasound for Screening for Proximal deep venOus Thrombosis in Intensive Care Unit (the CLOT-SPOT study)

Description of the intervention The intervention involves a bedside two-zone lower limb compression point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) to screen for proximal deep vein thrombosis. Using a high-frequency linear probe, compression is applied at two standard zones: the common and superficial femoral vein and the popliteal vein. The participant is positioned supine with appropriate limb positioning. Vein compressibility is assessed in real time. The procedure is non-invasive and performed at the bedside. Frequency and duration Each scan will take approximately 5–10 minutes and will not exceed 15 minutes per episode. Scans will be performed at predefined time points according to the study protocol. Training of junior ICU medical staff Prior to study commencement, junior staff will receive a brief face-to-face orientation (approximately 1 hours) delivered by an experienced operator in POCUS, covering study procedures and how to assist during scanning. Location and setting All ultrasounds will be performed at the participant’s bedside in the intensive care unit. No patient transfer is required. Monitoring adherence and fidelity A standardized scanning protocol and data collection form will be used. Scan timing, anatomical sites assessed, and image adequacy will be documented.