Date of Defense

4-16-2024

Date of Graduation

4-2024

Department

Nursing

First Advisor

Angela Groves

Second Advisor

Pamela Wadsworth

Abstract

Long trips are fun, but they also come with risks, like Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). It is a serious medical condition, which is characterized by the formation of blood clots in deep veins, and poses significant risks if left untreated. Even though it is a severe medical condition, lots of people are not aware of it, which shows the lack of awareness among the general population. The thesis is an approach to shed some light on the critical issues of DVT during long-haul flights and educate about its risk factors, symptoms, preventative measures, and the importance of proactive health promotion. By using Pender’s Health Promotion Model, the study talks about the unique needs of travelers, considering factors such as age, physical condition, and travel habits to tailor preventative strategies effectively.

The reason I chose this topic is because, as an international student, I have to travel on long flights of more than 12-15 hours, and I know firsthand the challenges and risks associated with extended periods of immobility. Long-haul flights, those lasting over four hours, significantly heighten the risk of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT). Research indicates a concerning correlation between travel duration and the incidence of Venous Thromboembolism (VTE), with studies suggesting an 18-26% increase in VTE risk for every additional two hours of travel (Sabanoglu, 2021). Despite these concerning statistics, passenger awareness of this risk remains alarmingly low, with only 52% recognizing the correlation between flight duration and DVT risk (Kucharzewski et al., 2021). DVT is more common, especially on extended flights, because of the following factors: dehydration, lowered cabin pressure, prolonged immobility, and limited opportunities for movement. A real-world case study highlights the seriousness of DVT while traveling, focusing on the necessity of immediate medical attention and the possible life-threatening consequences. Addressing DVT during long-distance travel needs a multimodal strategy that includes risk assessment, education, and proactive preventative measures, which will be discussed in my thesis paper.

Access Setting

Honors Thesis-Restricted

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