K.N.O.W. Home Health - DEEP VEIN THROMBOSIS

DEEP VEIN THROMBOSIS

What Is DVT?

DVT stands for Deep Vein Thrombosis. It happens when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, usually in the legs. This can block blood flow and cause swelling or pain. The biggest danger is if the clot breaks off and travels to the lungs, which is life-threatening.

Common Causes of DVT

Not moving for a long time (like sitting during a long trip or being on bed rest)
Surgery, especially joint or hip surgery
Injury to a blood vessel
Being overweight
Smoking
Certain medical conditions (like cancer or blood disorders)
Pregnancy
Family history of blood clots

Signs and Symptoms

Swelling in one leg
Pain or tenderness, especially when standing or walking
Warmth in the swollen area
Red or discolored skin
The symptoms usually affect one leg, not both

⚠️ Sometimes there are no symptoms at all. That’s why prevention is important.

How to Prevent DVT

Move around often if sitting or lying down for long periods
Walk daily or do light leg exercises
Wear compression stockings if your doctor recommends them. Be sure you are measured for them and wear the correct size.
Drink water to stay hydrated recommended 8 - 8oz daily unless on fluid restrictions.
Do not smoke
Take blood thinners (if prescribed)
Avoid crossing your legs for long periods as it inhibits blood flow.

Bwear loose fitting clothing to encourage blood flow

Pump your ankles when sitting to mimic walking and aid in the movement of blood from lower extremities.

Treatment for DVT

Blood thinners (medications to stop the clot from getting bigger or traveling)
Compression stockings
Clot-busting drugs in serious cases
Surgery or special procedures (rare)
Most people are treated at home with medicine and follow-up visits

Diet and Lifestyle Considerations

If you're on blood thinners like warfarin (Coumadin), eat a consistent amount of vitamin K (found in green vegetables like spinach and kale)
Avoid alcohol and herbal supplements unless your doctor approves
Always ask your doctor before taking any new medicine, including over-the-counter pain meds like ibuprofen or aspirin
Be careful to avoid injuries, especially if you are on blood thinners

When to Call Your Home Health Nurse or Doctor

Call your home health nurse or doctor if you:

Have swelling or pain that is getting worse
Miss a dose of your blood thinner
Have bleeding or bruising while on medication
Feel dizzy or lightheaded
Have any questions about your medicine, diet, or activity

When to Call 911 (Emergency Room)

Call 911 right away if you:

Have sudden chest pain
Have shortness of breath
Cough up blood
Feel like your heart is beating too fast or unevenly
Have signs that the blood clot has moved to your lungs — this is called a pulmonary embolism, and it’s a medical emergency

✅ Patient Homework/Assessment: True or False (20 Statements) Please correct all False Statements

True or False: DVT stands for Deep Vein Thrombosis.
True or False: DVT usually causes pain and swelling in both legs at the same time.
True or False: A blood clot from DVT can travel to the lungs and be life-threatening.
True or False: Sitting for a long time can cause a DVT.
True or False: Compression stockings may help prevent DVT.
True or False: Smoking raises the risk of getting a blood clot.
True or False: Drinking plenty of water can help prevent DVT.
True or False: You should never move around if you have DVT.
True or False: Most DVTs are treated in the hospital with surgery.
True or False: Blood thinners help stop clots from getting bigger or traveling.
True or False: If you miss a dose of your blood thinner, it’s okay to skip it without calling your nurse.
True or False: Shortness of breath and chest pain are signs that a clot may have moved to the lungs.
True or False: You should avoid taking new over-the-counter medicines without asking your doctor.
True or False: A healthy diet and walking daily can help prevent DVT.
True or False: DVT can sometimes have no symptoms at all.
True or False: You should avoid alcohol if you are on blood thinners.
True or False: Warfarin is a type of blood thinner.
True or False: A sudden cough with blood could mean a DVT has moved to your lungs.
True or False: You should call 911 if you feel dizzy or lightheaded.
True or False: You should ask your doctor before taking vitamins or herbal supplements if you have DVT.

ASSESSMENT of WELL-BEING INDIVIDUALIZED PATIENT HOMEWORK

Symptom Identification:

Have you noticed any swelling, warmth, or redness in your leg that feels different from your other leg?

Activity Impact/SAFETY:

Do you experience pain or difficulty walking, and have you been avoiding certain activities because of leg discomfort?

Treatment Adherence:

Are you taking your prescribed blood thinner exactly as instructed, and have you missed any doses recently?

Preventive Measures:

Are you elevating your legs, wearing compression stockings, and moving around regularly to help prevent another blood clot?