The wearing of compression hosiery for leg problems other than leg ulcers

Many people have leg problems other than ulceration. Practitioners from one primary care trust in Suffolk considered nursing assessment of these patients and the fitting of prescribed compression hosiery where appropriate as a health promotion initiative. However, ongoing assessment adds to heavy clinical demands on community practitioners. Engaging with people to take greater responsibility for their health, and recognition that practice should be underpinned by credible evidence, provided the backdrop to a two-staged retrospective audit. Results are based on the nursing records of 101 patients wearing prescribed compression hosiery other than for previous venous ulceration. It was concluded that following an initial detailed holistic assessment, including ankle brachial pressure index, those patients who meet identified characteristics can be empowered to return for reassessment only if there is a change in their health status, or skin changes to their legs. An information leaflet is considered critical to this strategy.