Which nursing action is appropriate for a postpartum client with DVT who is receiving anticoagulant therapy?

• A. Monitor for signs of bleeding such as hematuria, ecchymosis, and epistaxis
• B. Limit fluids to reduce edema
• C. Masssage the affected leg
• D. Discontinue anticoagulants at the first sign of discomfort

Answer: (A)

Anticoagulants raise the chance of bleeding, so the key nursing action is careful monitoring for signs of bleed in a postpartum client with DVT. Look for indicators such as blood in the urine (hematuria), easy or unusual bruising (ecchymosis), and nosebleeds (epistaxis). These signals help detect bleeding before it becomes severe, allowing timely intervention while the anticoagulant therapy continues as prescribed.

Other actions don’t address the bleeding risk or can cause harm: limiting fluids doesn’t reduce the need for anticoagulation or edema management; massaging the affected leg could move a clot and cause a pulmonary embolus; stopping anticoagulants at the first sign of discomfort could permit the clot to grow or shower fragments to the lungs. The safer approach is to maintain therapy while vigilantly assessing for bleeding and reporting any signs promptly.