If knee-high TEDs are ordered, what should the HUC do?

When knee-high TEDs (Thrombo-Embolic Deterrent stockings) are ordered, it is essential for the health unit coordinator (HUC) to ensure that the stockings fit properly for effective use. Consulting with the patient’s nurse to measure the patient is the best approach. The patient's nurse typically has the training and experience necessary to measure the patient accurately. Proper fitting is crucial as incorrectly sized stockings can lead to discomfort or ineffective compression, which can defeat the purpose of using TEDs.

Additionally, it's important to recognize that simply ordering a random size does not guarantee that the stockings will fit the patient, and inaccurate sizes can lead to complications such as skin irritation or impaired circulation. Measuring the patient's legs directly by the HUC without appropriate clinical training could also pose risks. Consulting with the physician would not be the most efficient first step, since measuring the patient can be handled directly by the nursing staff who are closely involved in the patient’s care and condition. This collaborative approach ensures that the patient receives the best support in managing their health needs.