Which combination of measures is recommended on long flights to reduce venous thromboembolism risk?

• A. Regular movement only
• B. Hydration only
• C. Regular movement, calf exercises, compression stockings, hydration, and avoiding prolonged immobility
• D. Prolonged immobilization

Answer: (D)

Preventing venous thromboembolism on long flights relies on maintaining steady venous return from the legs by combining several measures that address different risk factors of clot formation during extended immobility.

Regular movement keeps the leg muscles active, especially the calf pumps, which squeeze the veins as you move or flex your ankles. This helps push blood back toward the heart and reduces pooling in the legs. Calf exercises further maximize this effect even while seated, making sure blood keeps circulating. Compression stockings provide external support to the veins, limiting dilation and helping blood move upward, which lowers venous stasis and edema risk. Hydration is important because staying well-hydrated keeps blood from becoming too viscous and maintains adequate plasma volume, both of which reduce clotting tendency. Avoiding prolonged immobility means taking breaks to stand, stretch, or walk periodically, so the blood has a continuous path back to the heart rather than sitting motionless for hours.

Together, these measures form a comprehensive approach to lowering VTE risk. Relying on movement alone misses the benefits of stockings and hydration; hydration alone doesn’t improve venous return; prolonged immobilization increases risk rather than reduces it.