{"id":1616,"date":"2024-09-26T18:29:41","date_gmt":"2024-09-26T22:29:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/hcalabtheoryandpractice\/chapter\/anti-embolism-stockings-2\/"},"modified":"2024-10-01T16:41:59","modified_gmt":"2024-10-01T20:41:59","slug":"anti-embolism-stockings","status":"publish","type":"chapter","link":"https:\/\/opentextbc.ca\/hcalabtheoryandpractice\/chapter\/anti-embolism-stockings\/","title":{"raw":"4.9 Anti-Embolism Stockings","rendered":"4.9 Anti-Embolism Stockings"},"content":{"raw":"Some clients may be prescribed by their doctor special compression or anti-embolism stockings to wear on their legs. [pb_glossary id=\"530\"]Anti-embolism stockings[\/pb_glossary] help force blood in superficial veins of the legs to deeper veins, prevent stagnation of blood in the veins of the legs, and promote venous return to the heart (Sorrentino, et al., 2019; Taylor, et al., 2001). A physician\u2019s order is required for their use. These types of stockings are used for clients with poor circulation, who have limited activity, or are at risk for getting a blood clot. They are also used to help prevent or reduce swelling.\r\n\r\nSeveral manufacturers produce men\u2019s and women\u2019s stockings that apply pressure to the legs from the foot to mid-thigh or higher. Some apply mild pressure; others apply pressure equivalent to that of an elastic bandage. Anti-embolism stockings are made of elastic material and available in either knee-high or thigh-high length. They are also available in a variety of colours. Many people who are on their feet or remain in one position a great deal, such as HCAs, nurses, salespeople, and businesspeople, find them useful. The stockings should be fitted correctly to the person\u2019s measurements.\r\n\r\nStockings should be placed on the client\u2019s legs prior to the client getting out of bed in the morning, to prevent blood pooling in the lower legs which causes swelling (Sorrentino, et al., 2019; Taylor, et al., 2001). Follow the instructions written in the care plan for guidelines for when to apply, how long the client should wear these stockings each day, and when to remove the stockings. Anti-embolism stockings should always be removed during morning care, the legs inspected, and the stockings reapplied before the client is out of bed.\r\n

General Guidelines<\/h1>\r\n