Venous leg ulcer Resources

Management of venous leg ulcers and use of compression therapy as early as possible have been identified as a priority (Atkin et al, 2021). However, selecting the correct wound dressing to use under compression therapy has not received the same attention, despite being crucial in the application of correct levels of pressure on the limb. This article reviews venous leg ulcers, how and why we use compression therapy, and the assessment needed before treatment starts. It also explores the attributes of dressings used under compression and the decision-making process for selecting correct dressings for each individual patient, while considering opportunities for promoting supported self-care.

Appropriate and accurate assessment and management of lower limb wounds requires a timely, holistic assessment of the patient and their wound, including the recording of an ankle-brachial pressure index (ABPI) (Wounds UK, 2019a). A manual ABPI procedure requires advanced skills, using a handheld ABPI device, and is undertaken by a healthcare professional who is appropriately trained. In addition, the procedure is time consuming, taking a minimum of 40 minutes, and is subjective in its results, based on the technique and skill of the operator. This article describes an innovative service evaluation project that has seen the introduction of 20 automated ABPI machines into 19 general practices and a community vascular clinic in Staffordshire. The project has included the development of a care pathway, recruitment of wound champions, and training within each of the practices. Evaluation of the project is ongoing but tracks ABPI readings, assessment and wound management of patients, onward referrals and outcomes for patients, to ensure that the project’s potential to improve patient care is realised.