CHAPTER 1 Cardiovascular System^51
- Explain to patient:
- Anticoagulation use, interference with foods and medications, need for
frequent lab monitoring. - Avoid contact with anyone who has a respiratory tract infection.
- Maintain good dental hygiene.
- Call the physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant if detect signs
of heart failure: shortness of breath, weight gain, nonproductive cough. - Return to normal activities slowly.
- Anticoagulation use, interference with foods and medications, need for
Thrombophlebitis
WHAT WENT WRONG?
Throbmophlebitis is the inflammation of a vein as a result of the formation of
one or more blood clots (thrombus). It is usually seen in the lower extremities,
calves, or pelvis. This may be the result of injury to the area, may be precipitated
by certain medications or poor blood flow, or may be the result of a coagulation
disorder.
PROGNOSIS
Prognosis is usually good unless embolization, or moving of the clot, occurs. It
may move to the lung or brain, which can be life-threatening.
HALLMARK SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
- May be asymptomatic
- Edema, tenderness, and warmth in the affected area as part of an inflamma-
tory response - Palpable tender cord
- Positive Homan’s sign—pain on dorsiflexion of the ipsalateral foot—is an
unreliable sign - Cramping because blood flow to the area is impaired due to the presence of
the clot
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