What should the nurse plan for an immobilized child in cervical traction to prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT)?
a. Elevate the child's legs.
b. Place a foot cradle on the bed.
c. Place a pillow under the child's knees.
d. Assist the child to dorsiflex the feet and rotate the ankles.
ANS: D
For a child who is immobilized, circulatory stasis and DVT development are prevented by instructing patients to change positions frequently, dorsiflex their feet and rotate the ankles, sit in a bedside chair periodically, or ambulate several times daily. Elevating the legs or placing a foot cradle on the bed will not prevent DVTs. A pillow under the knee would impair circulation, not improve it.
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