Anti-embolism elastic stockings are most important for which type of patients?

Anti-embolism elastic stockings are particularly crucial for non-ambulatory patients because these individuals are at a significantly higher risk for developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) due to prolonged periods of immobility. When a patient is unable to move around, blood flow in the lower extremities can become stagnant, leading to the formation of blood clots. The graduated compression provided by anti-embolism stockings helps promote venous return, reducing the risk of clot formation by increasing blood circulation in the legs.

While other groups of patients, such as those with arterial insufficiency or post-fracture edema, may benefit from some form of compression therapy, the primary indication for anti-embolism stockings is to prevent complications associated with immobility. Ambulatory patients typically have the ability to move and are therefore less likely to experience the stagnation of blood flow that leads to DVT, making the use of these stockings less critical in their case.