Final answer:
Anti-embolic stockings are medical hosiery that support circulation and reduce the risk of blood clot formation by applying graduated compression, which is tighter at the ankles and decreases up the leg.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct answer to the student's question is D) Anti-embolic. An anti-embolic stocking is a type of medical hosiery designed to support circulation and reduce the risk of blood clot formation in the lower limbs, especially for individuals who are at risk or immobile for long periods, such as patients recovering from surgery. These stockings apply graduated compression that is tighter at the ankles and gradually decreases up the leg. This design promotes venous return, decreases venous pressure, prevents venous stasis, and improves overall blood flow, which can help prevent the formation of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and other related conditions.