A nurse is educating a client about the importance of compliance with anticoagulant therapy for deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The client asks, "Why is it essential to take these medications?" What is the nurse's best response?

A) This choice is incorrect because fasting is not necessary before a venous Doppler ultrasound. The client can eat and drink normally before the test.

B) This choice is incorrect because the client should continue to take prescribed medications as usual unless otherwise instructed by the healthcare provider. Medications that thin the blood, such as anticoagulants, may not be stopped before the test.

C) This choice is correct. The client should wear loose-fitting clothing that can be easily removed to allow access to the affected area during the ultrasound. This facilitates the ultrasound technician's ability to perform the test accurately.

D) This choice is incorrect because contrast dye is not typically used in a venous Doppler ultrasound. Contrast venography may involve the use of contrast dye, but not Doppler ultrasound.

Questions

A) This choice is correct. Gender is a non-modifiable risk factor for DVT, with women generally having a higher risk than men. Hormonal changes, such as those associated with pregnancy, oral contraceptives, and hormone replacement therapy, can contribute to the increased risk in women.

B) This choice is incorrect because obesity is a modifiable risk factor for DVT, not a non-modifiable one. Clients can work to achieve and maintain a healthy weight to reduce their risk.

C) This choice is incorrect because smoking history is a modifiable risk factor for DVT. Clients can quit smoking to decrease their risk of blood clot formation.

D) This choice is incorrect because a sedentary lifestyle is a modifiable risk factor for DVT. Clients can engage in regular physical activity to reduce their risk.