The nurse is contributing to the plan of care for a patient who has received a total hip replacement. Which of the following exercises should the nurse recommend to help prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) formation? (Select all that apply.)

Question

a. Straight leg raises (SLRs)
b. Deep knee bends
c. Foot circles
d. Heel pumping
e. Quadriceps setting
f. Toe touches

Answer 1

ANS: A, C, D, E
Because most DVTs occur in the lower extremities, leg exercises are started in the immediate postoperative period and include heel pumping, foot circles, and SLRs. The patient also performs quadriceps-setting exercises (quad sets). B and F. Deep knee bends and toe touches are not standard postoperative exercises and would be restricted in a patient with a total hip replacement due to restricted hip flexion.