What is the best nursing intervention to prevent a pulmonary embolus in a client on bed rest?

The best nursing intervention to prevent a pulmonary embolus in a client on bed rest is to teach the client how to exercise the legs. This is crucial because promoting leg exercises, such as ankle pumps and foot circles, can help enhance venous return and improve circulation, thereby reducing the risk of thrombus formation in the veins. During periods of inactivity, particularly in clients on bed rest, blood flow can stagnate in the lower extremities, increasing the chance of clot formation that may lead to a pulmonary embolism.

By actively engaging the muscles of the lower legs through exercise, you can encourage enhanced blood flow and decrease venous stasis, which are key factors in the prevention of pulmonary emboli. It is essential for the nurse to provide education on how to perform these exercises safely and effectively so that the client understands the importance of regular leg movement.

Other options may not effectively address the risk factors associated with venous thromboembolism. Limited fluid intake might actually increase the risk of clotting due to dehydration. While the use of an incentive spirometer is important for preventing atelectasis and promoting lung expansion, it does not directly influence blood flow in the legs. Maintaining the knee gatch position at an angle could potentially create pressure on the veins