Final answer:
Thrombophlebitis is an inflammation of a vein due to a blood clot, often presenting signs such as pain, swelling, and redness. Interventions include anti-inflammatory and anticoagulant medications, and for severe cases like sepsis, antibiotics and drotrecogin-a.
Step-by-step explanation:
Definition of Thrombophlebitis
Thrombophlebitis is a thrombus (blood clot) formation with associated inflammation in a vein. This condition often occurs in the legs and can lead to complications such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Signs and symptoms of thrombophlebitis may include warmth, swelling, pain, redness, and tenderness along the affected vein.
Signs & Symptoms
- The typical signs and symptoms (S&S) of thrombophlebitis include:
- Swelling in the affected limb
- Redness and warmth over the area of the clot
- Pain or tenderness that worsens with pressure or when standing or walking
Interventions
- Treatment interventions for thrombophlebitis focus on:
- Reducing inflammation
- Preventing the clot from growing
- Ensuring the clot does not break loose and cause a pulmonary embolism
These interventions may include medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs, anticoagulants, and in severe cases like sepsis, treatments including antibiotics and drotrecogin-a may be necessary.