Ted stockings, also known as teds or T.E.D. (Thrombo Embolic Deterrent) stockings, are anti-embolism stockings for the legs that help prevent blood clots. They are used primarily for bedridden patients and postsurgical patients. Teds are made of elastic fibers that squeeze the legs, which promotes healthy blood flow.
Benefits
When a person is recumbent, or bed-ridden, blood clots can form due to impaired venous return. Blood clots are a high cause of death and disease in adults. A blood clot can travel to different parts of the body including the lungs or brain. A blood clot in the brain can cause a stroke. Ted stockings put pressure on the leg muscles, thus promoting venous return and preventing blood clots.
Types
Ted stockings come in different lengths and pressures. Medical professionals determine if the patient requires knee-high or thigh-high stockings and the compression needed. Most Teds also have a hole in the toe area. This allows medical professionals to check the temperature, color, and pulse in the feet.
Application
Before Ted stockings are applied, a medical professional will assess the patient. The skin and circulation to the legs and feet will be checked. Once it is determined that the patient can use the Teds, the medical professional will measure the legs to determine the proper size stockings. Each stocking will then be applied by folding the leg partly inside-out to get the foot in, and then slide the stocking up the leg. The stockings should be smooth and fully extended.
Contraindications
There are some circumstances when Ted stockings should not be used. Recent skin grafts or skin conditions such as dermatitis,open sores and gangrene are contraindicated. Teds should also not be used if there is a severe vascular disease and may not be used in the case of extreme swelling of the legs.
Warnings
When wearing Ted stockings, there are some warnings that should be heeded. The legs cannot be massaged or crossed. Wrinkles should be avoided. If sitting, the legs need to be elevated. The patient should also check for any allergic reactions or irritations.
Related Posts:
Symptoms Of A Blood Clot In The Arm
Symptoms of a Blood Clot in the ArmBlood clots can originate from almost any part of the body. They will travel through the blood stream until they become lodged in an artery or vein. When a clot...
Signs & Symptoms Of A Blood Clot In The Neck
Blood clots that form in the neck can be extremely dangerous.Blood clots usually form when you injure yourself. The blood clots and forms a scab, keeping the injured area protected until the body...
Get Certified In Icd9 Codes
Medical coding is one of the fastest growing careers today.The U.S. Bureau of Statistics estimates the need for medical coders will increase exponentially due to the increasing use of electronic h...
What Is A Butterfly Needle
Examples of butterfly needles`Having blood drawn is a fact of life. Nearly everyone experiences it at some point. Fear of pain and multiple needle sticks cause many people to cringe at the thought...
Overthecounter Stressrelief Pills
Over-the-Counter Stress-Relief PillsStress in small doses can be a helpful response to pressure-filled situations. According to HelpGuide.org, stress under pressure can make you perform better as...