Why is ambulation started early after CABG?

• A. To prevent deep vein thrombosis
• B. To prevent pneumonia
• C. To increase blood loss
• D. To prolong hospital stay

Answer: (A)

Early ambulation after CABG focuses on reducing postoperative complications by promoting venous return and better lung mechanics. The main reason for getting patients moving soon after surgery is to prevent deep vein thrombosis by decreasing venous stasis in the legs. When a patient is immobile, blood flow in the legs slows, increasing clot risk; standing and walking exercises engage the leg muscle pumps that drive venous return, lowering this risk. While there are secondary benefits—like helping clear the lungs and reducing pneumonia—these are not the primary driver in this question. Early ambulation does not increase blood loss and, in fact, tends to help shorten recovery time and hospital stay.