A client presents with swelling, redness, and warmth in one leg. The nurse suspects deep vein thrombosis (DVT). What initial assessment should the nurse perform to confirm the presence of DVT?

A) This choice is incorrect because a family history of high cholesterol is not directly related to DVT risk. While high cholesterol may contribute to other cardiovascular conditions, it is not a primary risk factor for DVT.

B) This choice is incorrect because a history of asthma is not a direct risk factor for DVT. Asthma is a respiratory condition and is not significantly associated with blood clot formation.

C) This choice is correct. Prolonged immobility during long flights, especially in cramped spaces, is a known risk factor for DVT. This condition is often referred to as "economy class syndrome" due to its association with long-haul flights in tight seating.

D) This choice is incorrect because the use of medications for diabetes does not directly relate to DVT risk. While some medications may influence blood clotting, diabetes itself is not a primary risk factor for DVT.

A) This choice is incorrect because while monitoring blood pressure is essential, it is not the priority action for clients on anticoagulant therapy. The primary concern is assessing the client's response to the medication and their risk of bleeding.

B) This choice is correct. Monitoring the client's prothrombin time (PT) and international normalized ratio (INR) is crucial in assessing the effectiveness of anticoagulant therapy. The PT and INR measure how long it takes the blood to clot and help determine the appropriate dosage of anticoagulants to achieve the desired therapeutic effect.

C) This choice is incorrect because checking the client's blood glucose levels is not directly related to monitoring the response to anticoagulant therapy. Blood glucose monitoring is essential for clients with diabetes but not a priority in this context.

D) This choice is incorrect because evaluating the client's respiratory rate and pattern is not the priority action for monitoring the response to anticoagulant therapy. Respiratory assessment is vital in detecting potential complications like a pulmonary embolism but does not directly assess the client's anticoagulation status.

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