As for all postoperative and litter-bound patients, deep venous thrombosis prophylaxis should be initiated within 24 hours of injury if the patient has no signs/symptoms of ongoing hemorrhage (e.g., normal vitals, serial Hgb stable for 3 lab draws).See the JTS Prevention of Deep Venous Thrombosis – Inferior Vena Cava Filter CPG.
- Vibration and increased tissue edema in flight will increase pain. Ensure adequate en-route pain control by ordering breakthrough pain medications.
- Do not remove drains within 12 hours before movement.
- Avoid filling Foley Catheter balloon with air so the balloon does not expand in flight.
- Ensure foley is well-secured to the leg and that the bag is to gravity and visible for monitoring.