To reduce or prevent edema of the legs and feet-rationale: made of elastic material, antiembolism stockings are designed to reduce or prevent edema of the legs or feet by promoting venous return. they do this by increasing not decreasing arterial and venous blood circulation to the legs and feet. they dont maintain warmth in the legs. blankets can be used for this purpose.client needs category: physiological integrityclient needs subcategory: physiological adaptationcognitive level: knowledgereference: craven, r.f., and hirnle, c.j. fundamentals of nursing: human health and function, 5th ed. philadelphia: lippincott williams & wilkins, 2007, p. 897.