A nurse is providing education to a client about the risk factors for deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Which statement made by the client indicates a need for further teaching?

A) This choice is incorrect because advanced age is a non-modifiable risk factor for DVT. While age is associated with increased risk, it is not directly related to the client's use of hormonal therapy.

B) This choice is incorrect because male gender is not a risk factor for DVT. Women, particularly those on estrogen-based therapies like hormone replacement therapy or oral contraceptives, are at higher risk.

C) This choice is incorrect because smoking history is a modifiable risk factor for DVT, not directly related to hormonal therapy. Smoking increases the risk of clot formation and is not specific to the client's use of hormonal therapy.

D) This choice is correct. Estrogen-based hormone replacement therapy and oral contraceptives can increase the risk of DVT due to their effect on blood coagulation. Estrogen can increase the production of certain clotting factors, raising the risk of blood clot formation in the veins. It is essential for healthcare providers to weigh the benefits and risks when prescribing hormonal therapy to clients.

Questions

A) This choice is incorrect because auscultating the lungs for crackles is not directly related to confirming the presence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Lung auscultation may be performed to assess for potential complications of DVT, such as pulmonary embolism.

B) This choice is correct. Homans' sign is a clinical test used to assess for the presence of DVT. The nurse flexes the client's knee and gently dorsiflexes the foot. A positive Homans' sign is indicated by calf pain or discomfort during dorsiflexion and may suggest the presence of a blood clot in the deep veins of the leg.

C) This choice is incorrect because measuring blood pressure in both arms is not a specific assessment for deep vein thrombosis (DVT). It may be done as part of a routine assessment but does not confirm the presence of DVT.

D) This choice is incorrect because performing a capillary refill test is not specific to DVT assessment. Capillary refill is a measure of peripheral perfusion and may be useful in assessing overall circulatory status, but it does not directly confirm the presence of DVT.