BCEN CEN Practice Question

Current evidence-based guidelines, such as those from the American College of Chest Physicians, recommend using a validated clinical prediction rule, like the Wells score, as the initial step in assessing the probability of a DVT. Performing Homans' sign is not recommended as it is an unreliable and non-specific physical finding. Applying sequential compression devices is a method of DVT prophylaxis and is contraindicated in a limb with a suspected or known DVT. Instructing the patient to ambulate could be dangerous and may risk embolization of a potential thrombus.