DVT Examination

Question 1

General inspection

Answer 1

Well, unwell, SOB, discomfort
Signs of malignancy eg. Cachexia, immobility eg walking aids, recent trauma or surgery, pregnancy
Medicines around the bed

Question 2

Leg inspection

Answer 2

Skin- red
Unilateral leg swelling
Venous insufficiency (risk)- venous eczema, haemosiderin, lipodermatosclerosis, venous ulcers, varicose veins

Question 3

Palpation

Answer 3

Temperature of both legs
Tenderness (start at ankle and move up)- looking at face
Pitting oedema and JVP
Calf diameters- circumference 10cm below tibial tuberosity
Palpate for distal pulses

Question 4

Summary

Answer 4

Full CV and resp examinations

Review obvs esp sats and RR

Question 5

Further investigations

Answer 5

FBC UE (anticoagulant- choice depends on renal function) coagulation profile
D dimer if wells less than 2
If wells 2 or greater or positive d dimer, compression ultrasound (veins will not collapse under the pressure)