A nurse is reinforcing teaching about the prevention of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) with a group of newly licensed nurses. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the teaching?

Choice A rationale While vitamin K, found in green leafy vegetables, is essential for the synthesis of clotting factors (II, VII, IX, X), it is relevant to individuals on warfarin therapy. For general deep vein thrombosis (DVT) prevention, the focus is on promoting venous return and preventing stasis, not dietary modification regarding vitamin K, unless a client is on specific anticoagulants. Choice B rationale Massaging lower extremities in a client at risk for DVT is contraindicated because it could theoretically dislodge a pre-existing, non-symptomatic clot. Dislodgement can convert the deep vein thrombus into a pulmonary embolus (PE), a life-threatening complication where the clot travels to the pulmonary vasculature, impeding gas exchange. Choice C rationale Sequential compression devices (SCDs) use intermittent, pneumatic pressure to cyclically compress the leg, simulating the action of the skeletal muscle pump. This external compression promotes venous blood flow from the superficial to the deep veins, which effectively reduces venous stasis and the associated risk of thrombus formation, a primary mechanism in DVT pathogenesis. Choice D rationale Limiting movement of the lower extremities increases venous stasis, which is a key component of Virchow's triad (venous stasis, endothelial injury, hypercoagulability) and a major risk factor for DVT formation. Promoting activity, such as frequent position changes, ambulation, or ankle pumps, is the core physical intervention for preventing DVT.