Final answer:
A nurse should be aware that pulmonary embolism is a serious complication associated with deep vein thrombosis, which can happen when a blood clot from the legs travels and blocks the pulmonary arteries.
Step-by-step explanation:
The complication that a nurse should be aware of that is associated with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is pulmonary embolism (PE). When DVT occurs, it can lead to the formation of a blood clot in a deep vein, typically in the legs. A PE happens when a clot breaks loose, travels through the bloodstream, and becomes lodged in the pulmonary arteries. This occlusion can lead to severe respiratory distress, lung damage, or even instantaneous death due to the disruption of pulmonary blood flow and gas exchange at the alveoli level.
Individuals with heart failure may have an increased risk of developing DVT because their weakened heart is unable to pump blood efficiently throughout the body. This can result in blood pooling and clot formation, especially in the legs. Additionally, situations like long-haul flights where the person is sedentary for extended periods can further increase the risk of clotting as venous return is reliant on skeletal muscle movements. To mitigate this risk, it's advisable to walk frequently and perform leg exercises to improve venous return.