SEQUENTIAL COMPRESSION DEVICE (SCD)
- Are inflatable sleeves that fit around your
legs. The sleeves are attached to a pump
that inflates and deflates the sleeves.
 Applying sequential compression device is a
mechanical prophylactic treatment to
reduce the incidence of venous
thromboembolism by enhancing the blood
flow in the deep vein of the legs.
Consideration before the procedure
 Assess inflation and deflation of the sleeve
to be sure the device is working
 Monitor for kinking or pinching of the
connecting tube
 Monitor circulation, sensation and motion of
the foot, including: Skin color, pulses,
temperature, capillary refill, sensation, and
skin condition/integrity
 Movement and sensation of feet and lower
extremities
 Assess skin integrity and s/sx of severe
peripheral arterial disease
 Assess cognitive level and level of
consciousness.
Consideration after the procedure
 Place the regulating pump for the sequential
compression in a location that will ensure
patients safety
 Place the patient in a supine position
 Ensure proper fitting of the sleeve
Purpose
 As an adjunctive measure in patient
receiving anticoagulant therapy
 Promote venous return from legs to
decrease the risk of deep vein thrombosis
and pulmonary embolism in clients with
reduced mobility
 To prevent postoperative complications (i.e,
thrombophlebitis)
 To promote comfort in the lower extremities
Equipment
 Sequential compression stocking/ hose
 Clean gloves
 Tape measure
 Compression pump
 Washcloth and towel
Things needed to be
documented
 Date and time you applied the device
 Note the type and size of compression
sleeve used
 Skin condition before the procedure.
Things to remember to maintain safety
 Remove the compression sleeves at
intervals so that ‘you can inspect skin and
evaluate the adequacy of circulation
 Always check the compression pressure.
Leave one to two fingerbreadths between
sleeve and extremity
How to apply sequential compression
device?
 Check the doctor’s order. Identify the
patient; explain purpose. Assess patient’s
family member’s ability to participate
 Wash hands and don on gloves
 Obtain equipment from central supply
 Gather the equipment and place at bedside
and adjust lighting
 Position patient in bed in Fowler’s position
 Wrap stocking/hose around the leg. Starting
at the ankle, with the opening over the
patella.
 Attach the stocking/ hose to the insufflator
and make sure the intermittent pressure is
over 35 to 40mmHg
 Remove gloves and do hand washing
 Check stocking/hose and compressor
equipment periodically
 Conduct patient or family health teaching
about removal of stocking/hose as indicated
Deep vein thrombosis
Blood clotting in the veins of the inner
thigh or leg.
Applying
The formation of a thrombus (blood clot)
in the lower leg.

Blood clots can break off (as an embolism)

sequential
and makes its way to the lung where it has
the potential of causing respiratory distress
and respiratory failure. compressi
on
device