What is a primary cause of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in patients who are immobile?

What is a primary cause of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in patients who are immobile?

• A. Excessive hydration
• B. Decreased circulation
• C. Overexertion
• D. Increased physical activity

Answer: (B)

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) primarily occurs when blood flow is reduced or stagnant in the deep veins, often due to prolonged immobility. When a person is immobile, such as during long flights, bed rest, or surgery recovery, the muscles in the legs are not contracting effectively. This lack of muscular action is crucial for promoting venous return—the process by which blood is moved back to the heart. Reduced circulation allows blood to pool, which increases the risk of clot formation within the veins. Hydration is generally important for overall circulatory health, and overexertion or increased physical activity would typically promote blood flow and prevent stagnation, making these options less relevant to the development of DVT. Therefore, decreased circulation as a result of immobility is a fundamental factor contributing to the risk of DVT.

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) primarily occurs when blood flow is reduced or stagnant in the deep veins, often due to prolonged immobility. When a person is immobile, such as during long flights, bed rest, or surgery recovery, the muscles in the legs are not contracting effectively. This lack of muscular action is crucial for promoting venous return—the process by which blood is moved back to the heart. Reduced circulation allows blood to pool, which increases the risk of clot formation within the veins.

Hydration is generally important for overall circulatory health, and overexertion or increased physical activity would typically promote blood flow and prevent stagnation, making these options less relevant to the development of DVT. Therefore, decreased circulation as a result of immobility is a fundamental factor contributing to the risk of DVT.