In PCC care of an unconscious patient, performing foot pumps, ankle circles, and leg raises is intended to be done at what interval to prevent which condition?

In PCC care of an unconscious patient, performing foot pumps, ankle circles, and leg raises is intended to be done at what interval to prevent which condition?

• A. Every 30 minutes to prevent edema
• B. Every 2 hours to prevent DVT
• C. Every 4 hours to prevent contractures
• D. Every 6 hours to prevent pneumonia

Answer: (B)

Regular leg movement activates the calf-muscle pump, which helps push venous blood back toward the heart. In an unconscious patient, lack of movement causes venous stasis in the legs, significantly increasing the risk of deep vein thrombosis. Doing foot pumps, ankle circles, and leg raises every two hours keeps venous return ongoing, reducing stasis and the chance of clot formation. This interval is chosen to provide frequent, consistent stimulation without excessive activity; longer gaps allow stasis to develop, increasing DVT risk. These exercises primarily target preventing DVT rather than edema, contractures, or pneumonia. Edema can be influenced by more factors and interventions; contractures are best addressed with broader ROM and positioning; pneumonia prevention focuses on chest mobility, coughing/deep breathing, and regular turning.

Regular leg movement activates the calf-muscle pump, which helps push venous blood back toward the heart. In an unconscious patient, lack of movement causes venous stasis in the legs, significantly increasing the risk of deep vein thrombosis. Doing foot pumps, ankle circles, and leg raises every two hours keeps venous return ongoing, reducing stasis and the chance of clot formation. This interval is chosen to provide frequent, consistent stimulation without excessive activity; longer gaps allow stasis to develop, increasing DVT risk.

These exercises primarily target preventing DVT rather than edema, contractures, or pneumonia. Edema can be influenced by more factors and interventions; contractures are best addressed with broader ROM and positioning; pneumonia prevention focuses on chest mobility, coughing/deep breathing, and regular turning.