Question

The nurse is caring for a client at risk of developing a deep vein thrombosis (DVT). What are four interventions the nurse can implement to decrease the client’s risk of developing a DVT?

Answer 1

To decrease the risk of developing DVT, a nurse can encourage ambulation, advise leg exercises, use graduated compression stockings, and recommend elevation of the legs during extended periods of sitting.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse can implement several interventions to decrease the client's risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT), particularly when the client has conditions like heart failure that increase the risk:

1. Encouraging ambulation where possible, such as taking walks, which helps to improve circulation in the legs and prevent blood pooling.
2. Advising the client to perform leg exercises, especially during long periods of sitting, such as ankle circles and foot pumps, to facilitate blood flow.
3. Using graduated compression stockings to apply gentle pressure on the legs, which can help veins return blood more effectively to the heart.
4. Elevation of the legs when sitting to reduce swelling and enhance blood circulation.