An occupational health nurse is providing an educational event and has been asked by an administrative worker about the risk of varicose veins. What should the nurse suggest as a proactive preventative measure for varicose veins?

Question

A) Sit with crossed legs for a few minutes each hour to promote relaxation.
B) Walk for several minutes every hour to promote circulation.
C) Elevate the legs when tired.
D) Wear snug-fitting ankle socks to decrease edema.

Answer 1

Ans: B
Feedback:
A proactive approach to preventing varicose veins would be to walk for several minutes every hour to promote circulation. Sitting with crossed legs may promote relaxation, but it is contraindicated for patients with, or at risk for, varicose veins. Elevating the legs only helps blood passively return to the heart and does not help maintain the competency of the valves in the veins. Wearing tight ankle socks is contraindicated for patients with, or at risk for, varicose veins; socks that are below the muscles of the calf do not promote venous return, the socks simply capture the blood and promote venous stasis.