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Suspected VTE after surgery — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardCardiovascular TherapeuticsSuspected VTE after surgeryGPhC CRA

A 75-year-old woman has an acute swollen calf after recent hip replacement. She asks for ibuprofen gel and says she is mildly breathless climbing stairs. Her medicines include rivaroxaban prophylaxis, which she stopped two days ago because of bruising. What is the most appropriate action?

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Correct answer: E — Refer urgently for assessment of possible venous thromboembolism

Unilateral calf swelling after hip replacement with breathlessness raises concern for DVT or PE. Stopping rivaroxaban adds risk and should not be managed with OTC analgesia alone. The patient needs urgent medical assessment.

Reference: NICE CKS; BNF