What is a common complication associated with immobility in patients?

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a common complication associated with immobility due to the stagnation of blood flow in the veins, particularly in the legs. When a person is immobile for extended periods, such as during hospitalization or following surgery, the muscles do not contract effectively to help push blood back to the heart. This decreased venous return can lead to the formation of blood clots within the deep veins of the legs. If left untreated, these clots can dislodge and travel to the lungs, resulting in a potentially life-threatening condition called pulmonary embolism.

The other options, while they may be related to general health concerns or other conditions, do not directly correlate with the specific issue of immobility. Hypertension can be influenced by numerous factors including diet, stress, and genetics, but it is not primarily a complication of immobility. Similarly, hypoglycemia usually occurs from insufficient glucose levels and is more commonly associated with certain conditions like diabetes or inadequate food intake rather than immobility itself. Respiratory acidosis typically arises from respiratory issues that prevent adequate gas exchange, rather than being a direct result of immobility. Thus, deep vein thrombosis is the most relevant concern when considering the effects of