Which nursing intervention is beneficial for preventing thrombus formation in immobile patients?

Encouraging ambulation or using compression stockings is crucial for preventing thrombus formation in immobile patients because both actions promote venous return and enhance blood circulation. When patients are immobile, blood flow can become sluggish, particularly in the lower extremities, increasing the risk of thrombosis, which is the formation of a clot within a blood vessel.

Ambulation, even in a limited capacity, encourages the natural movement of muscles that helps pump blood back toward the heart. This reduces stasis, one of the key factors contributing to thrombus development. For patients who are unable to ambulate, compression stockings provide graduated compression that helps facilitate blood flow in the veins, thereby minimizing the risk of clot formation.

In contrast, restricting fluids may lead to dehydration and potentially poor circulation. Increasing bed rest duration fails to address the risks associated with immobility and actually heightens the likelihood of thrombus formation. Applying heat therapy might seem beneficial for alleviating discomfort, but it does not contribute to improving circulation and can even lead to vasodilation and pooling of blood, which is counterproductive for patients at risk of thrombus formation.