Certified Neuroscience Registered Nurse (CNRN) Practice Exam

What is the most effective way to prevent DVT in a patient hospitalized for Guillain-Barré management?

1. Compression stockings

2. Mini doses of heparin

3. Increased mobility exercises

4. Mechanical devices

The correct answer is: Mini doses of heparin

In the context of preventing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in a patient hospitalized for Guillain-Barré syndrome management, the use of mini doses of heparin is a highly effective strategy. Heparin is an anticoagulant that works by inhibiting the formation of blood clots, which can be particularly beneficial for patients who may be immobilized or have reduced mobility due to their neurological condition. The risk of DVT increases significantly in patients who are hospitalized, especially those with conditions like Guillain-Barré syndrome, where motor function may be compromised, leading to prolonged immobility. Administering mini doses of heparin can actively reduce the incidence of clot formation by enhancing blood flow and preventing stasis in venous circulation. While compression stockings, increased mobility exercises, and mechanical devices are also addressing DVT prevention, they do not provide the same level of systemic anticoagulation that heparin does. Compression stockings can help with venous return but may not be sufficient alone in high-risk patients. Increased mobility exercises may be limited by the patient's ability to participate actively, especially in the acute phase of the illness. Mechanical devices, such as sequential compression devices, are beneficial but again, do not provide the antico