SCD (Sequential Compressive Device) used for treatment of DVT patients, ensures:

Appeared in: Combined AIIMS - 2020 (Jodhpur, Bhopal, Patna, Raipur)

Explanation

Sequential Compression Devices (SCDs) are a form of mechanical prophylaxis against deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
The device uses inflatable sleeves that wrap around the legs and sequentially inflate and deflate, starting from the ankle and moving up the leg.
This action mimics the natural calf muscle pump that occurs during walking, which enhances venous blood return to the heart.
By increasing blood flow velocity and preventing venous stasis (pooling of blood), SCDs effectively prevent the formation of blood clots in the deep veins.

Option A: This is the opposite of the device's intended purpose. SCDs are used to prevent, not cause, the formation of thrombi.
Option C: SCDs are designed for circulatory support and have no function in regulating a patient's body temperature. Preventing hypothermia is achieved with devices like warming blankets or forced-air warmers.
Option D: This option is incorrect because option B provides an accurate and appropriate description of the primary function and mechanism of an SCD.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Knowing The concept tested is the mechanism and purpose of Sequential Compression Devices (SCDs) as a method for Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) prophylaxis helps nurses interpret findings accurately and avoid errors in routine assessment, medication administration, and patient teaching.
DVT prophylaxis is a critical nursing responsibility for at-risk patients, especially those who are immobile post-surgery, critically ill, or on prolonged bed rest.
Nurses are responsible for the correct application of SCDs, ensuring a proper fit (e.g., two fingers should fit between the sleeve and the leg), and monitoring the skin for any signs of breakdown, irritation, or circulatory impairment.
It is crucial to know the contraindications for SCD use, which include a current DVT, severe peripheral arterial disease, skin grafts, or open lesions on the legs.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key term in the question, which is 'SCD (Sequential Compressive Device)'.
Recall the primary clinical purpose of an SCD. It is used to prevent blood clots in the legs.
Analyze the action word 'ensures', which asks for the device's function or guaranteed outcome.
Evaluate each option based on your knowledge. Option A is the direct opposite of the device's purpose. Option C involves temperature regulation, which is unrelated.
Consider Option B: 'Walking and preventing blood clots'. This correctly links the mechanism (mimicking walking) to the primary goal (preventing clots).
Conclude that Option B is the most accurate description of what an SCD does.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: The concept tested is the mechanism and purpose of Sequential Compression Devices (SCDs) as a method for Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) prophylaxis.
Stem keywords: SCD, Sequential Compressive Device, DVT, treatment
Lead-in keywords: ensures

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E6 Nursing Fundamentals Potter Perry 12e Part 4 p. 153-155

E6 Nursing Brunner Adult Health 3SA Vol 1 Part 3 p. 80-82

Practise the full Combined AIIMS - 2020 (Jodhpur, Bhopal, Patna, Raipur)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.