Tools and resources

Adoption support resource – insights from the NHS

1 Executive summary

1 Executive summary

This resource has been developed to provide practical information and advice on viscoelastometric point-of-care testing (ROTEM, TEG and Sonoclot systems) (NICE diagnostics guidance DG13). It is intended for use by both clinical and non-clinical staff who are planning to implement this NICE guidance and start using 1 of these technologies.

NICE's Health Technologies Adoption Programme worked with NHS organisations to collect and share their experiences of using viscoelastometric point-of-care testing with organisations that may want to start using 1 of these technologies in the future. The information included in this resource is intended for the sole purpose of supporting the NHS in adopting or further researching viscoelastometric point-of-care testing. The information has not been assessed by the independent External Assessment Group or considered by the Diagnostics Advisory Committee when making its decision on the use of viscoelastometric point-of-care testing in the NHS.

The benefits of using viscoelastometric point-of-care testing reported by NHS staff involved in the production of this resource include:

  • Improved clinical management of patients who are bleeding.

  • Reduced risk of transfusion-related complications due a reduced need for blood and blood components.

  • Improved management of blood and blood components.

  • Cost savings due to reduced use of blood and blood components.

We have produced this information to support organisations in considering the benefits of implementing NICE guidance DG13. This resource explores these benefits in detail and provides practical advice on how NHS trusts can use viscoelastometric point-of-care testing effectively.

The learning gained from existing users of viscoelastometric point-of-care testing is presented as a series of examples of current practice. They are not presented as best practice nor are they necessarily fully in accordance with the guidance. They are presented as real-life examples of how NHS sites have adopted and used these technologies. The examples included in this document that extend beyond the positive guidance recommendations are presented to assist organisations and clinicians who intend to carry out research.


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