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Contents loading... Editors loading... Categories loading... When refering to evidence in academic writing, you should always try to reference the primary (original) source. That is usually the journal article where the information was first stated. In most cases Physiopedia articles are a secondary source and so should not be used as references. Physiopedia articles are best used to find the original sources of information (see the references list at the bottom of the article). If you believe that this Physiopedia article is the primary source for the information you are refering to, you can use the button below to access a related citation statement. Purpose[edit | edit source]Homan’s sign test also called dorsiflexon sign test is a physical examination procedure that is used to test for Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). A positive Homan’s sign in the presence of other clinical signs may be a quick indicator of DVT. Clinical evaluation alone cannot be relied on for patient management, but when carefully performed, it remains useful in determining the need for additional testing (like D-dimer test, ultrasonography, multidetector helical computed axial tomography (CT), and pulmonary angiography) [1][2]. Technique[edit | edit source]
[3] Evidence[edit | edit source]Passive, abrupt and forced ankle dorsiflexion with slight knee flexion causes mechanical traction on the posterior tibial vein. This traction stimulates the pain sensitive structures in the lower limb [4] [5]. Differential diagnosis of conditions that demonstrate a positive Homan’s sign include intervertebral disc herniation, ruptured Baker’s cyst, neurogenic claudication, gastrocnemius spasm, and cellulitis [6]. Accuracy[edit | edit source]Homan’s sign has low sensitivity and specificity in diagnosing DVT; it can be of value if used in addition to more accurate diagnostic procedures like ultrasonography and venography[7]. Precaution[edit | edit source]Vigorous dorsiflexion of the foot is used by surgeons to expel clot from the veins and so this test may have its dangers[8]. Common Errors[edit | edit source]A common error that may occur is the examiner not dorsiflexing the patient’s foot enough to get a correct interpretation. The knee of the patient must also be in full extension. Relevance to Physiotherapists[edit | edit source]Homan’s sign test may serve as a quick and easy way to determine if a patient might be having a DVT and subsequently exercise caution when carrying out certain movements involving the lower limb especially in bedridden and unconscious patients. References[edit | edit source]
Which interventions help prevent thrombophlebitis during the postoperative period?Your healthcare provider will usually prescribe one or more of the following to prevent blood clots:. Anticoagulant. This is medicine that prevents blood clots. ... . Compression stockings. ... . Exercises. ... . Ambulation (getting out of bed and walking). ... . Sequential compression device (SCD) or intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC).. Which medication would the nurse administer to specifically lower a client's elevated triglyceride level?High-dose niacin (vitamin B-3) (1500 or more mg/d) decreases triglyceride levels by at least 40% and can raise HDL cholesterol levels by 40% or more.
What complication is the nurse aware of that is associated with deep venous thrombosis?Post-thrombotic syndrome is a long-term complication of DVT. It occurs due to damage and incompetence of venous valves causing blood to pool in the lower leg.
Which action should be incorporated into the client teaching plan to prevent deep vein thrombosis?To prevent DVT, patient care includes graduated compression stockings or the use of a pneumatic compression device, and administration of the correct dose of anticoagulation agent (heparin or LMWH).
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