When assessing a patient post-operatively for signs of DVT, which symptom is vital to monitor?

• A. Wound healing
• B. Joint mobility
• C. Calf swelling and tenderness
• D. Muscle strength

Answer: (C)

Monitoring for signs of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) post-operatively is critical, especially given the potential for serious complications that can arise if DVT leads to a pulmonary embolism. Calf swelling and tenderness are particularly important symptoms to observe, as they are classic indicators of DVT.

When assessing a patient, the presence of unilateral swelling or tenderness in the calf can suggest thrombosis in the deep veins of the leg, which is where DVT typically occurs. An increase in size or warmth in one leg compared to the other, combined with tenderness, raises concern and warrants further investigation, such as Doppler ultrasound, to confirm or rule out the presence of a clot.

While wound healing, joint mobility, and muscle strength are certainly important factors to assess in a post-operative patient, they do not provide the same direct information regarding the risk of DVT. Wound healing is focused on surgical site recovery, joint mobility addresses rehabilitation progress, and muscle strength pertains to overall functional recovery. However, these factors do not directly indicate a thrombotic condition that needs immediate attention, making calf swelling and tenderness the vital symptom to monitor in this context.