Compression Increases the Hydrostatic Pressure in the Tissues, Decreasing the Ultra-Filtration

Multiple Choice

Compression increases the hydrostatic pressure in the tissues, decreasing the ultra-filtration out of the damaged capillaries and increasing the absorption of fluid by the veins and fluid and proteins by the lymphatic vessels. What is the recommended pressure range for intermittent compression devices, and why?

A) 30 to 60 mm Hg for the upper extremity and higher for the lower extremity, due to the girth difference between the upper and lower extremities
B) Below 30 to 40 mm Hg, due to inaccurate control of the actual pressure created by the devices or the potential damage to the superficial lymphatic vessels
C) 40 to 80 mm Hg for the lower extremity and lower for the upper extremity, due to the girth difference between the upper and lower extremities
D) 20 mm Hg less than the patient's diastolic pressure to decrease the risk of closure of the lymphatic vessels