DEEP  VEIN  THROMBOSIS  PREVENTION

The most common locations for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) include the lower leg, thigh, and pelvis. Recognition and treatment of a DVT require specific medical training and can only be accomplished by a medical responder. However, the prevention of DVTs is not a medical task and should be performed by any available Service Member. If available, compression stockings, or elastic bandages (wrapped starting from the toes upward) should be placed on immobile or unconscious casualties, ensuring toes remain exposed for capillary refill assessment. Casualties who are conscious and able may perform the following exercises, completing 10 repetitions of each exercise every hour while awake. This may be done in burned extremities or in the presence of open wounds but should be avoided when fractures or severe extremity injuries are present.7,11

Signs and Symptoms of DVT

Non-medical and Medical Responders

Conscious Casualties: 10x every 2 hours, while awake

Unconscious Casualties: 10x every two hours