DVT and PE: Treatment and Nursing Care

Choose a study mode

Play Quiz
Study Flashcards
Spaced Repetition
Chat to Lesson

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson
Download our mobile app to listen on the go
Get App

Questions and Answers

A patient with a diagnosed DVT is being cared for. Which of the following nursing interventions is most appropriate to implement?

  • Massaging the affected limb gently to improve circulation.
  • Applying cool compresses to reduce inflammation and pain.
  • Elevating the affected extremity without direct pressure at the knee. (correct)
  • Placing a pillow directly under the patient's knee to promote comfort.

A patient is receiving Alteplase. What is the primary goal of this medication in the context of a blood clot?

  • Providing symptomatic relief from pain associated with the blood clot.
  • Reducing inflammation around the site of the blood clot.
  • Preventing the formation of new blood clots.
  • Dissolving existing blood clots to restore blood flow. (correct)

What is the purpose of placing a vena cava filter in a patient at risk for pulmonary embolism (PE)?

  • To capture blood clots and prevent them from reaching the lungs. (correct)
  • To widen the vena cava and improve overall blood flow.
  • To administer medication directly into the bloodstream.
  • To actively dissolve any existing blood clots in the vena cava.

A nurse is monitoring a patient with a DVT. Which of the following assessment findings would suggest the patient is developing a pulmonary embolism (PE)?

<p>Sudden onset of shortness of breath and difficulty breathing. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is suspected of having a pulmonary embolism and is awaiting further treatment. What immediate intervention should the nurse prioritize?

<p>Elevating the head of the bed and administering oxygen. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Thrombolytic Agent

Medication such as Alteplase to break down existing clots.

Thrombectomy

Surgical removal of a blood clot.

Vena Cava Filter

Device that Prevents emboli from reaching the lungs.

DVT Nursing Care

Elevate, warm compress, compression stockings, and monitor for PE.

Signup and view all the flashcards

PE Treatment

High Fowler's position and oxygen administration.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Study Notes

  • To break down an existing clot, a thrombolytic agent like Alteplase is needed.
  • A thrombectomy is a procedure that involves the removal of a clot.
  • Placement of a vena cava filter can help prevent an embolism from reaching the lungs and causing a pulmonary embolism (PE).

Nursing Care for DVT

  • Elevate the patient's extremity.
  • Avoid placing a knee gatch or pillow under the knee.
  • Apply warm, moist compresses.
  • Do not massage the limb.
  • Apply compression stockings as ordered.
  • Monitor for signs and symptoms of a PE, such as shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.

Treatment of PE

  • Sit the patient upright in a high Fowler's position to improve breathing.
  • Administer oxygen as ordered.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Quiz Team

More Like This

Use Quizgecko on...
Browser
Browser