What is a method used to prevent DVT in surgical patients?

The administration of subcutaneous (SC) heparin is a widely recognized and effective method for preventing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in surgical patients. Heparin is an anticoagulant that works by thinning the blood and preventing it from clotting. By inhibiting certain clotting factors in the blood, SC heparin reduces the risk of clot formation in the veins, especially during periods of reduced mobility, which is common in postoperative patients.

DVT is a serious condition that can lead to complications such as pulmonary embolism. Surgical patients are particularly at risk due to factors such as decreased mobility during and after surgery, and the use of heparin helps mitigate this risk. The administration of heparin is often part of a larger strategy to enhance venous return and circulation, along with other measures like ambulation and the use of compression stockings.

While methods such as increased fluid intake and patient mobilization are beneficial for overall health and may aid in circulation, they do not directly prevent clotting in the same way that anticoagulants do. Antibiotics, on the other hand, are used to prevent infection but have no role in preventing DVT. Thus, SC heparin stands out as a targeted approach to reducing the