Which assessment finding suggests a possible DVT (deep vein thrombosis)?

Unilateral leg swelling and tenderness are classic indicators of a deep vein thrombosis (DVT). DVT commonly occurs in one leg as a result of a blood clot in a deep vein. The swelling is often accompanied by tenderness or pain in the affected leg, which can be due to increased venous pressure and localized inflammation. In assessing a patient for DVT, healthcare providers look for this asymmetrical swelling, as it helps differentiate DVT from other conditions like heart failure, which may cause bilateral swelling due to systemic issues.

Other assessment findings, while they may be relevant in different contexts, do not point specifically to DVT. For instance, bilateral leg swelling is more indicative of systemic conditions such as heart failure, kidney disease, or venous insufficiency, rather than a localized clot. Coldness of the leg might suggest arterial obstruction, not venous issues like a DVT. A skin rash over the leg could be related to various dermatological conditions, infection, or allergic reactions, none of which directly indicate a DVT. Thus, the presence of unilateral swelling and tenderness is a primary red flag for DVT that requires further investigation and prompt management.