A client with a recent right thigh deep vein thrombosis develops new signs. Which finding would be most concerning for potential stroke from a clot?

A client with a recent right thigh deep vein thrombosis develops new signs. Which finding would be most concerning for potential stroke from a clot?

• A. Swelling along vein of leg
• B. Right foot tingling
• C. Restlessness
• D. Warmth over affected area

Answer: (C)

The key idea is that a clot from a deep vein can travel to the brain and cause a stroke, so any new neurologic or mentation changes are the most alarming signs. Restlessness reflects a change in brain function—agitation, confusion, or an inability to stay still—that can indicate cerebral ischemia from an embolus. That kind of CNS symptom stands in contrast to the local leg findings, which point to ongoing venous thrombosis rather than brain involvement. A tingling sensation in the foot is a peripheral symptom, not a sign of brain embolism, whereas restlessness signals possible neurologic compromise from a clot reaching the brain. If restlessness is observed in this context, it warrants immediate neuro assessment and imaging to evaluate for a potential stroke.

The key idea is that a clot from a deep vein can travel to the brain and cause a stroke, so any new neurologic or mentation changes are the most alarming signs. Restlessness reflects a change in brain function—agitation, confusion, or an inability to stay still—that can indicate cerebral ischemia from an embolus. That kind of CNS symptom stands in contrast to the local leg findings, which point to ongoing venous thrombosis rather than brain involvement. A tingling sensation in the foot is a peripheral symptom, not a sign of brain embolism, whereas restlessness signals possible neurologic compromise from a clot reaching the brain. If restlessness is observed in this context, it warrants immediate neuro assessment and imaging to evaluate for a potential stroke.