Which intervention is essential for a patient at risk for VTE post-surgery?

Utilizing sequential compression devices (SCDs) is essential for a patient at risk for venous thromboembolism (VTE) post-surgery because these devices are specifically designed to promote venous return and prevent blood clots in the lower extremities. After surgery, patients often experience decreased mobility, which can lead to blood pooling in the veins of the legs and ultimately result in clot formation. SCDs work by applying intermittent pressure to the legs, mimicking the natural muscle pump of ambulation and enhancing blood flow back to the heart.

While encouraging ambulation and increasing fluid intake are important parts of VTE prevention, they may not always be sufficient on their own, particularly in the initial post-operative period when a patient may not yet be mobile. Administering aspirin prophylactically can be part of a broader strategy for VTE prevention, but it is primarily used for patients at risk for arterial clots rather than venous clots. In this context, SCDs provide a direct mechanical means of reducing the risk of VTE and are often recommended in conjunction with other methods for optimal prevention.