Page 1715 - Saunders Comprehensive Review For NCLEX-RN

thrombophlebitis have resolved.
n. Monitor prothrombin time and
international normalized ratio during
warfarin therapy.
o. Monitor for the adverse effects
associated with anticoagulant therapy.

p. Client education (Box 52-9)

D. Venous insufficiency
1. Description
a. Venous insufficiency results from
prolonged venous hypertension, which
stretches the veins and damages the
valves.
b. The resultant edema and venous stasis
cause venous stasis ulcers, swelling,
and cellulitis.
c. Treatment focuses on decreasing edema
and promoting venous return from the
affected extremity.
d. Treatment for venous stasis ulcers
focuses on healing the ulcer and
preventing stasis and ulcer recurrence.
2. Assessment

a. Stasis dermatitis or brown discoloration
along the ankles, extending up to the
calf
b. Edema
c. Ulcer formation: Edges are uneven,
ulcer bed is pink, and granulation is
present; usually located on the lateral
malleolus.
3. Interventions

For venous insufficiency, leg elevation is usually prescribed to

assist with the return of blood to the heart.
a. Instruct the client to wear elastic or
compression stockings during the day
and evening if prescribed (instruct the
client to put on elastic stockings on
awakening, before getting out of bed);
it may be necessary to wear the
stockings for the remainder of the
client’s life.
b. Instruct the client to avoid prolonged

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