SCDs
Medical abbreviation · Nursing
| Stands for | Sequential compression devices |
|---|---|
| Categories | Medical |
SCDs stands for Sequential compression devices, a nursing abbreviation.
Inflatable sleeves wrapped around the calves or legs that fill with air in sequence to push blood toward the heart, helping prevent deep vein thrombosis in immobile or surgical patients. A bedside pump cycles them and alarms if a sleeve is disconnected.
Example: SCDs on bilaterally while in bed; pt refused at 2200, educated on DVT risk.
Usage notes
The singular SCD is used for one device; in cardiology the same letters mean sudden cardiac death and in hematology sickle cell disease. SCDs are one form of intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC). They are usually avoided on a leg with a known clot, and charting refusals matters because adherence largely determines how well they work.
Related abbreviations
More nursing abbreviations
- PI – Pressure injury
- PICC – Peripherally inserted central catheter
- PIV – Peripheral intravenous catheter
- QSEN – Quality and Safety Education for Nurses
- ROC – Resumption of care
- s/p – Status post
- SL – Saline lock
- SN – Skilled nursing
- SOC – Start of care
- SSE – Soapsuds enema
- T&P – Turn and position
- TCDB – Turn, cough, deep breathe
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This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.