Venous Leg Ulcers: Comprehensive Assessment and Management

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Venous leg ulcers (VLUs) have a high prevalence and a steep cost, both financially and in terms of patients’ quality of life. VLUs recur frequently and are associated with serious complications such as infection and immobility. Although these chronic wounds are challenging to prevent and manage, wound care professionals can optimize clinical outcomes for their patients by performing careful assessments and using best practice therapeutic techniques.

This thoroughly referenced guide begins with background information on VLUs. It then describes in detail the systematic assessment of the patient with a VLU. The guide continues with an in-depth discussion of evidence-based management of both chronic venous insufficiency and VLUs.

Wound care professionals will find this guide a helpful resource on VLUs. The step-by-step assessment protocol is comprehensive, and the treatment sections include practical instructions on edema control through compression, skin care techniques, medications and dressings, and pain management strategies.

The following topics are covered in this guide:

Epidemiology and financial burden of VLUs

Pathophysiology of chronic venous insufficiency and VLUs

CEAP classification system

History taking and systems-based physical assessment

Treatment of chronic venous insufficiency, including edema control and skin care

Treatment of VLUs, including bioburden management, dressings, pharmacologic management and pain control

Preventive measures