Cardiac-Vascular Nursing (CVRN) Practice Exam

What is a common teaching focus for patients with a risk of venous thromboembolism?

1. Importance of maintaining hydration

2. Need for bed rest during recovery

3. Use of antibiotics to prevent infection

4. Avoiding all physical activity

The correct answer is: Importance of maintaining hydration

The emphasis on maintaining hydration for patients at risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) is crucial because adequate hydration helps in promoting good blood flow and reducing blood viscosity. Dehydration can lead to thicker blood, which increases the likelihood of clot formation. Hence, teaching patients about the importance of staying hydrated can serve as a preventive measure against VTE. When patients maintain good hydration, it assists in ensuring the blood is not overly concentrated, which can exacerbate the risk of clots in veins. It is essential for patients to understand how proper fluid intake can aid their overall vascular health and reduce the risk of developing blood clots during both acute care and recovery stages. While the other options address different aspects of patient care, they do not directly relate to the specific prevention of venous thromboembolism in the same way. For instance, bed rest can be contraindicated as prolonged immobility is a known risk factor for VTE. The use of antibiotics is related more to infection prevention rather than VTE, and avoiding all physical activity can promote immobility, which is detrimental in this scenario. In contrast, hydration serves as a practical and direct approach to mitigating the risk of venous thromboembolism.