The home care nurse provided self-care instructions for a client with chronic venous insufficiency caused by deep vein thrombosis. What instruction(s) should the nurse include in the client's discharge teaching plan? Select all that apply.

The correct answer is: a, c, d. Choice A: Avoid prolonged standing or sitting Reason: Prolonged standing or sitting can exacerbate symptoms of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) by increasing venous pressure and promoting blood pooling in the legs. Movement helps to enhance venous return and reduce swelling. Choice B: Cross legs at the knee but not at the ankle Reason: Crossing legs at the knee can impede blood flow and increase venous pressure, which is counterproductive for managing CVI. It is generally advised to avoid crossing legs at the knee to promote better circulation. Choice C: Continue wearing compression stockings Reason: Compression stockings are a cornerstone in the management of CVI. They help to improve venous return, reduce swelling, and prevent blood from pooling in the legs. Compression stockings should be worn as prescribed, typically during the day and removed at night. Choice D: Use a recliner for long periods of sitting Reason: Using a recliner can help elevate the legs above heart level, which reduces venous pressure and promotes venous return. This position can help alleviate symptoms of CVI. Choice E: Maintain the bed flat while sleeping Reason: Maintaining the bed flat while sleeping is not recommended for CVI management. Elevating the legs while sleeping can help reduce venous pressure and prevent blood from pooling in the legs.