An immobilized patient is at risk for deep vein thrombosis. Which symptom is most consistent with a DVT in the leg?

An immobilized patient is at risk for deep vein thrombosis. Which symptom is most consistent with a DVT in the leg?

• A. Severe, stretching-type pain in the inguinal area
• B. A line of erythema stretching from the popliteal area to the groin
• C. Pain, swelling, and erythema in the affected calf
• D. A dull ache and feeling of coolness in the affected thigh

Answer: (C)

Immobilization increases the risk of a deep vein thrombosis because slowed venous return allows a clot to form in the deep leg veins. The most consistent sign is unilateral pain, swelling, and redness in the calf on the affected leg. This combination reflects deep venous obstruction with inflammation and impaired venous drainage, often accompanied by warmth. The other descriptions point to different problems or to superficial vein issues rather than a deep venous clot, or they describe symptoms (like coolness) that don’t fit the typical DVT pattern.

Immobilization increases the risk of a deep vein thrombosis because slowed venous return allows a clot to form in the deep leg veins. The most consistent sign is unilateral pain, swelling, and redness in the calf on the affected leg. This combination reflects deep venous obstruction with inflammation and impaired venous drainage, often accompanied by warmth. The other descriptions point to different problems or to superficial vein issues rather than a deep venous clot, or they describe symptoms (like coolness) that don’t fit the typical DVT pattern.