Directions for Use of Sequential Compression Devices

A sequential compression device is a machine used in the health care setting to prevent formation of deep vein thromboses. Under normal circumstances, the blood in veins is returned to the heart by the pumping action of muscles surrounding the veins. Deep vein thromboses are blood clots that form in veins due to immobility of the extremities, causing stasis of blood in the deep veins, especially the legs. To prevent deep vein thromboses from forming in patients who are immobilized for extended periods of time, the sequential compression device is used to simulate the pumping action of the leg muscles with sequential compression of the legs by air pumped into sleeves wrapped around the legs.

Instructions

• 1

  Place a compression sleeve around each leg. The sleeve should be arranged such that the lower half of the legs are covered and the portion that will connect to the air pump is closest to the feet. Many sleeves have a portion that fits around the heels. Be sure that the sleeve is not loose around the legs but also not so tight as to deprive blood flow.

• 2

  Connect the air pump tubing to the compression sleeves. Often there will be an audible click when the tubing is securely connected.

• 3

  Turn on the device. Now the legs will be sequentially compressed from the bottom up to promote blood flow to the heart.