While caring for a postoperative patient requiring thigh-length sequential compression sleeves, what should the nurse confirm?

In the context of applying thigh-length sequential compression sleeves for a postoperative patient, confirming that two fingers can fit under the sleeves is vital for ensuring proper application and functionality. This fitting indicates that the sleeves are applied with appropriate snugness; they should be tight enough to promote venous return and prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT) but not so tight that they constrict circulation or cause discomfort to the patient.

A fit that allows two fingers to slide underneath ensures that there is adequate space for both circulation and comfort, promoting effective use of the compression sleeves without compromising the patient's safety. Proper fit is essential in achieving the intended therapeutic effects while minimizing potential complications such as impaired blood flow.

Other considerations like how tightly the sleeves are applied or the necessity of having both sleeves on both legs are relevant but do not directly address the crucial aspect of ensuring the sleeves are snug yet comfortable, which is why the fitting guideline of two fingers is the most relevant confirmation in this scenario.