A nurse is preparing to apply antiembolic stockings for a client who is at risk for deep-vein thrombosis. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Preventing deep vein thrombosis requires proper application of antiembolic stockings to ensure uniform sequential compression. Knowledge of peripheral vascular circulation, safety protocols, and mechanical prophylaxis application techniques must be applied to maximize venous return and prevent skin breakdown. Choice A rationale Rolling the top of the stocking down creates a tight, restrictive band that hinders venous return. This constriction causes localized blood pooling, increasing peripheral venous pressure and elevating the client risk for developing deep vein thrombosis. Choice B rationale Wrinkles in antiembolic stockings create uneven pressure distribution, leading to localized skin indentation and tissue ischemia. Inspecting for smoothness ensures consistent mechanical compression, protecting cutaneous integrity and ensuring optimal venous blood velocity. Choice C rationale Massaging bilateral calves is strictly contraindicated because it can dislodge an undetected, newly formed deep vein thrombus. Dislodgement propels the embolus into systemic circulation, causing a potentially fatal pulmonary embolism. Choice D rationale Stockings should be applied before the client gets out of bed, while peripheral veins are less distended. Allowing the client to stand causes dependent venous pooling, reducing the effectiveness of the compression therapy.