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Thrombophlebitis is inflammation with the formation of blood clots. It occurs in 1 in 1500 pregnancies. The three most common thromboembolic conditions during the postpartum period are superficial venous thrombosis (SVT), deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and pulmonary embolism (PE). The size of the clot can increase as circulating blood passes over it and deposits more platelets, fibrin, and cells. The levels of fibrinogen and other clotting factors normally increase during pregnancy, whereas levels of clot-dissolving factors are normally decreased, resulting in a state of hypercoagulability. Superficial thrombophlebitis is more prevalent postpartum than during pregnancy and is seen more in women experiencing varices. It involves the saphenous vein of the lower leg and is characterized by a painful, hard, reddened, warm vein that is easily seen. While approximately 50% of clients with DVT are asymptomatic, DVT is more serious in potential complications, such as pulmonary embolism, post-thrombotic syndrome, chronic venous insufficiency, and vein valve destruction. DVT can involve veins from the feet to the femoral area and is characterized by pain, calf tenderness, leg edema, color changes, pain when walking, and sometimes a positive Homan’s sign. However, the Homan’s sign is not always reliable during the postpartum period because it is not specific to blood clots postpartum. Pulmonary embolism occurs when the pulmonary artery is obstructed by a blood clot that breaks off and lodges in the lungs. It may have dramatic signs and symptoms, such as sudden chest pain, cough, dyspnea, a decreased level of consciousness, and signs of heart failure. Although thromboembolic disorders occur in less than 1% of all postpartum women, pulmonary embolism can be fatal if a clot obstructs the lung circulation; thus, early identification and treatment are paramount. Nursing management focuses on preventing thrombotic conditions, promoting adequate circulation if thrombosis occurs, and educating the client about preventive measures, anticoagulant therapy, and danger signs. Nursing care plan goals for a client diagnosed with postpartum thrombophlebitis include enhancing tissue perfusion, facilitating the resolution of thrombus, promoting optimal comfort, preventing complications, and providing information and emotional support. Here are five nursing care plans (NCP) and nursing diagnoses for postpartum thrombophlebitis:
1. Ineffective Peripheral Tissue PerfusionIneffective Peripheral Tissue PerfusionThe pregnant woman is at increased risk for venous thrombosis because of the venous stasis from compression of the blood vessels by the heavy uterus or by pressure behind the knees when the legs are placed in stirrup leg supports episiotomy repair. If the client has varicose veins or remains on bed rest, her hypercoagulability state increases her risk of thrombus formation. Nursing Diagnosis
Possibly evidenced by
Desired Outcomes
Nursing Assessment and Rationales1. Assess the client’s vital signs closely. 2. Monitor capillary refill time. 3. Assess the client closely for risk factors and signs and symptoms of thrombophlebitis. 4. Identify symptoms that
differentiate SVT from DVT. 5. Assess respiration
and auscultate for lung sounds, noting crackles or friction rub. Investigate reports of chest pain or feelings of anxiety. 6. Assess for pain or tenderness in the lower extremities. 7. Examine extremities for obviously prominent veins. Palpate gently for local tissue tension, stretched skin, and knots or
bumps along the course of the vein. Nursing Interventions and Rationales1. Instruct the client to avoid massaging or rubbing the affected extremity. 2. Elevate the client’s feet and lower legs above heart level when sitting or lying down. 3. Instruct the client to avoid wearing constrictive clothing and crossing her legs.
4. Encourage increased fluid intake of 2500 ml/day unless contraindicated 5. Emphasize the importance of deep breathing exercises. 6. Facilitate and assist with active or passive ROM while on bedrest; Assist with the gradual resumption of ambulation as advised. 7. Apply warm, moist compresses or heating pads to the affected extremity as ordered. 8. Apply support stockings as prescribed. Caution is advised to prevent a tourniquet effect. 9. Apply mechanical devices such as sequential compression stockings and thromboembolic (TED) stockings as indicated. 10. Monitor laboratory studies such as aspartate aminotransferase (AST), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT); hemoglobin (Hb), and hematocrit (Hct) 11. Administer medication for postpartum thrombophlebitis as indicated:
12. Prepare client for surgical intervention as indicated. 1. Ineffective Peripheral Tissue PerfusionRecommended ResourcesRecommended nursing diagnosis and nursing care plan books and resources. Disclosure: Included below are affiliate links from Amazon at no additional cost from you. We may earn a small commission from your purchase. For more information, check out our privacy policy.
See alsoOther recommended site resources for this nursing care plan:
Other care plans related to the care of the pregnant mother and her baby:
References and SourcesRecommended journals, books, and other interesting materials to help you learn more about postpartum thrombophlebitis nursing care plans and nursing diagnosis:
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