Which patient factor is associated with an increased risk of DVT?

Prolonged bed rest is associated with an increased risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) because it can lead to stasis of blood flow in the lower extremities. When a patient is immobile for an extended period, the normal muscle contractions that help facilitate blood circulation are diminished. This stasis allows for the potential formation of clots, as blood flow in the veins slows down, particularly in the legs. Conditions such as post-surgical recovery, prolonged illness, or immobilization due to injury significantly increase this risk.

In contrast, options like short physical activity periods do not typically lead to the same level of risk because even brief movements can stimulate blood flow. Younger age is generally protective against DVT, as younger individuals typically have fewer risk factors and better vascular health. Low cholesterol levels are not directly related to DVT risk; instead, they might indicate better overall cardiovascular health, which may counteract some risk factors for clot formation. Thus, prolonged bed rest significantly elevates the risk of DVT due to its direct impact on blood flow stasis.