The clinician should be aware of the Wells' Criteria when evaluating a patient for deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Wells' Criteria are risk factors that are assigned points toward the likelihood of DVT. Wells' Criteria include:
A. Active cancer
B. Recent bedridden condition
C. Pitting edema
D. All of the above
ANS: D
Wells' Criteria Possible score: –2 to 9
1. Active cancer (treatment within last 6 months or palliative): +1 point
2. Calf swelling greater than or equal to 3 cm compared to asymptomatic calf (measured 10 cm below tibial tuberosity): +1 point
3. Swollen unilateral superficial veins (nonvaricose in symptomatic leg): +1 point
4. Unilateral pitting edema (in symptomatic leg): +1 point
5. Previous documented deep vein thrombosis: +1 point
6. Swelling of entire leg: +1 point
7. Localized tenderness along the deep venous system: +1 point
8. Paralysis, paresis, or recent cast immobilization of lower extremities: +1 point
9. Recently bedridden 3 days or more, or major surgery requiring regional or general anesthetic in the past 12 weeks: +1 point
10. Alternative diagnosis at least as likely: –2 points
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