Question

A client is admitted for right leg vein ligation and stripping for varicose veins. Which nursing intervention postoperatively should the nurse include?

1) Apply knee-high stockings over the dressing.
2) Ask the client to elevate the legs when sitting.
3) Apply ice to dressings to decrease swelling.
4) Ask the client to remain inactive until healing is complete.

Answer 1

Postoperatively, the nurse should instruct the client to elevate their legs when sitting to decrease swelling and improve blood flow, which is vital after vein ligation and stripping surgery for varicose veins.

Step-by-step explanation:

The student is asking about postoperative nursing interventions for a client who has undergone vein ligation and stripping for the treatment of varicose veins. It is essential to facilitate a proper recovery and minimize complications such as thrombosis or clot formation post-surgery. Of the provided options, the most beneficial intervention would be for the nurse to instruct the client to elevate their legs when sitting. This helps to reduce venous pressure, decrease swelling, and improve venous return. While tight stockings are recommended for preventing varicose veins, especially during long periods of standing or sitting, they should not be directly applied over the new postoperative dressing. Applying ice is not the standard treatment post-varicose vein surgery, and remaining completely inactive is not recommended as it may increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).