Leg Ulcers Flashcards
What is the definition of a leg ulcer?
Any break in the skin of the lower leg, above the ankle,
> 4 weeks
True or False.
Most leg ulcers are arterial in nature
False.
Most (60-80%) are venous.
What aspects of medical history are important to ask about re ulcers?
1st ulcer? Varicose veins? DVT Clotting issues PVD Diabetes What kind of pain/ severity
What important details need to be noted in ulcer assessment?
Position of ulcer
Surface area measured
What is the normal ABPI?
0.8 - 1.2
How is ABPI measured?
systolic ankle/systolic brachial
When would be appropriate to take a wound swab?
If ulcer is painful, smelly or weeping
What is the treatment for venous ulcers?
Control pain ABPI De-sloughing if necessary with honey or hydrogel Compression bandaging Leg elevation
What kind of dressings have anti-bacterial properties?
Silver
At what stage would compression stockings be appropriate?
When the ulcer has almost healed
How are venous ulcers edges described?
Shallow
Arterial edges tend to be sharper and look “punched out”
