Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Flashcards
What deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
Formation of a thrombus (blood clot) in a deep vein, usually in the legs, which
partially or completely obstructs blood flow
How can travelling cause DVT?
Travel-related cause: inactivity during long journeys
Blood collects in lower parts of the body
Slow blood flow
Increased chance of blood clot forming
Who is at higher risk of DVT when travelling ?
Risk of DVT when travelling is increased if:
Personal / family history of DVT pulmonary embolism; Certain medical
conditions; Inactivity; Overweight/obese; Oestrogen therapy – oral contraceptives
or HRT; Pregnancy; Inherited blood clotting disorders; Increasing age;
Dehydrated; Smoking; Varicose veins
What are the symptoms of DVT ? (4)
Symptoms:
.Pain, swelling & tenderness
.Heavy ache in affected area
.Warm skin in area of clot
.Redness of skin
What is the main complication associated with DVT?
Main Complication - Pulmonary Embolism
Piece of blood clot breaks off into bloodstream & blocks a blood vessel
in the lungs
Breathing difficulties; chest pain; collapsed lungs; heart failure.
What class of drugs are used to treat DVT?
Anticoagulants (prevent blood from clotting)
What are 4 examples of parental anticoagulants?
What does the dose depend on ?
Side effects ?
Parental
Heparin, dalteparin, enoxaparin, tinzaparin, fondaparinux
Dose: Dependent on patient weight
Side-effects: skin rash; allergic reaction; bleeding; weakening of bones
What are oral examples of an anticoagulant? (2)
What do the doses of each depend on ?
Oral:
• Warfarin
.direct oral anticoagulants (DOAC – apixaban, dabigatran, edoxaban,
rivaroxaban)
Warfarin :
After initial heparin treatment
Regular blood tests to determine dose for warfarin
DOACs don’t require monitoring
Dose: warfarin – depends on body response, DOACs specific doses depending on treatment goal and
patient characteristics
What should you do to reduce the risk of DVT? (7)
.stay a healthy weight sit still for long periods of time – get up
and move around every hour or so
.stay active – taking regular walks can help
.drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration –DVT is more likely if you’re dehydrated
.perform simple leg exercises
.wear loose and comfortable clothing
.wear graduated compression hosiery
.take a short walk straight after the journey
What should you do to avoid the risk of DVT? (6)
. Avoid smoking
.avoid alcohol
. Avoid sitting crossed leg
.avoid sleeping pills
. Do not put your luggage where it will restrict your movement
. Do not sit in the same position for a long time
How can raising your legs help with DVT?
Raising the legs
Relieves pressure in veins of the calf
Stops blood & fluid pooling in the calf
Leg must be higher than hip (to allow returning blood
flow from the calf)
