Clinical factors associated with inappropriate prophylaxis of venous thromboembolic disease in critically ill patients. A single day cross-sectional study.

•VTE is an important healthcare and socio-economic problem due to its high morbidity and mortality.•The use of VTE prophylaxis in ICU has shown to be effective, reducing its incidence.•A poor implementation of VTE prophylaxis in ICU has been observed in epidemiological studies.•According to guidelines, 41% of all patients were receiving an inappropriate prophylaxis.•Correct evaluation of thrombotic and bleeding risk optimises mechanical and combined prophylaxis use.•Implementation of prophylaxis protocols would improve adherence to clinical practice guidelines.