The management of
patients with venous leg ulcers
Audit Protocol
The management of patients
with venous leg ulcers
Audit Protocol
Acknowledgements
Produced by the Dynamic Quality Improvement
Programme, RCN Institute in conjunction with
the Clinical Governance Research and Development
Unit, Department of General Practice and Primary
Health Care, University of Leicester
We should like to thank the following who
undertook peer review of this protocol.
Steering group: Carol Dealey, Andrea Nelson,
Edward Dickinson, Karen Jones, Lesley Duff
Advisory Panel: Richard Baker, Ian Seccombe,
Mary Clay, Julia Schofield, Sir Norman Browse,
Sara Twaddle
Users group: Dawne Squires, Sarah Pankhurst,
Kath Robinson, and Kate Panico
Protocol developed by Xiao Hui Liao,
Francine Cheater
The National Sentinel Audit Project for the
Management of Venous Leg Ulcers, from which this
audit protocol was developed, was funded by the
NHS Executive, Department of Health
Published by the Royal College of Nursing,
20 Cavendish Square,
London W1M OAB
Management of patients with venous leg ulcers
Audit protocol
Publication code 001 269
ISBN 1-873853-89-0
July 2000
Price
RCN members: £3.50
RCN non-members: £4.50
The management of patients with venous leg ulcers
Contents
1. Introduction
Why an audit of patients with leg ulcers
Background of national sentinel audit
What is included in the protocol
How to use this protocol
Which patients are included
Evidence grading
2
2
2
2
2
3
3
2. Summary of criteria
The criteria - assessment
The criteria - management
The criteria - cleansing, dressing, contact sensitivity
4
5
13
15
3. Introducing change
19
References
20
Sources of further information
23
Appendix 1 -Documentation
24
Appendix 2 -Audit Form
24
The management of patients with venous leg ulcers
Contents
1
1.
Introduction
A. Why an audit of patients with leg ulcers?
The total cost to the NHS of treating leg ulcers is
estimated to be as high as £600 million a year
(Douglas et al 1995).
audit tools, the RCN and its project partners will be
able to help local teams improve the quality of care
to patients. It is hoped that results will be collated
nationally in an anonymised form to enable
comparative data analysis to take place. This will
allow individual teams to benchmark their
performance against others, and by establishing
regional networks, to share good ideas and learn
from the experiences of colleagues.
A recent Effective Health Care Bulletin on
compression therapy for venous leg ulcers
concluded: “There is widespread variation in
practice, and evidence of unnecessary suffering
and costs due to inadequate management of
venous leg ulcers in the community.” (NHS Centre
for Reviews and Dissemination, 1997)
The initial project in which this audit protocol was
piloted was led by a collaborative partnership, coordinated by the RCN Dynamic Quality
Improvement Programme, a steering group of
representatives from other professional
organisations, and an advisory group of experts in
the management of leg ulcers.
Epidemiological data suggest that between 1.5-3.0
per 1000 of the population have active leg ulcers
(Fletcher et al 1997), and the prevalence increases
to 20 per 1000 in people over 80 years-of-age.
Experience from initiatives set up to improve
community-based nursing management of leg
ulcers (Moffat et al 1992; Thompson, 1993)
highlighted the potential for more clinical and
cost-effective practice through more widespread
adoption of evidence-based interventions.
C. This protocol was originally developed for the
national sentinel audit management of leg ulcers.
It contains:
◆
◆
B. Background for national sentinel audit for leg ulcers
The National Sentinel Audit Project for the
management of venous leg ulcers was funded by
the NHS Executive for an 18-month period. The aim
was to pilot a methodology to improve the quality
of care for leg ulcer patients in terms of clinical and
cost effectiveness. Evidence-based review criteria
were developed, based on the national guideline:
‘Clinical practice guidelines for the management of
patients with venous leg ulcers: recommendations
for assessment, compression therapy, cleansing,
debridement, dressings, contact sensitivity, training/
education and quality assurance’ (RCN et al 1998).
Methods of data collection have been developed
drawing on the experience of practitioners,
alongside the process of agreeing the evidencebased review criteria. Twenty pilot sites were
recruited to help the project team to test the
development of the audit package and
methodology.
The projrct team is grateful to the participating
sites for their input and feedback in the
development of the audit form.
The purpose of clinical audit is to improve the
quality of care to patients locally. It is intended that
by providing nationally-produced guidelines and
2
The management of patients with venous leg ulcers
◆
◆
◆
instructions to community nurses on how to
conduct the audit
detailed explanation and justification of the
criteria from research evidence
criteria prioritised according to the strength of
the research evidence and impact on the
outcome (Baker et al 1995)
data collection form
brief advice about change.
D. How to use this protocol
Planning the audit
A project leader must be identified who will take
responsibility for involving clinical staff.
Involvement in a clinical audit project is about
developing clinical practice, not just collecting
data. It is vital that the project leader seeks to
enable clinical staff to improve the service. Further
information on this can be found in the
implementation guide. If you are using this audit
protocol as a part of a regional or national project,
comparing your results with others, you will need
to audit all the criteria. If you are using this
protocol locally you may choose only to use the
‘must do’ criteria. You may wish to add criteria
which refer to protocols for organising care locally.
Ethical issues will also need to be considered at the
planning stage. It is important to ensure that local
procedures for ethical approval are followed.
Introduction
Introduction
Data collection - one form per patient
You should use one data collection form for each
individual patient. It is recommended that the data
collection will last for a three month period. The
completed form should be sent back to the project
leader in your organisation.
E. Which patients are included in the audit?
The protocol has been designed for community
nurses working in leg ulcer clinics as well as home
care-based practice. Leg ulcers are defined as areas
of “loss of skin below the knee on the leg or foot
which take more than six weeks to heal” (Effective
Health Care Bulletin 1997). Patients diagnosed with
venous leg ulcers are included in the project. This
includes new patients, patients who are in the
process of treatment and patients who have a
recurrent ulcer. For more detailed criteria, please
read the Instruction for Audit Form in Appendix 2
before you complete the form.
F. The evidence, on which the guideline
recommendations from which the audit criteria
were developed, was graded as follows:
I Generally consistent findings in a majority of
multiple acceptable studies.
II Either based on a single acceptable study, or a
weak or inconsistent finding in multiple
acceptable studies.
III Limited scientific evidence that does not meet all
the criteria of acceptable studies, or absence of
direct studies of good quality. This includes
published or unpublished expert opinion
(Waddell et al 1996).
The management of patients with venous leg ulcers
Introduction
3
2.
Summary of Criteria
Assessment
1. The records show that at the first assessment*, a
clinical history (ulcer history, past medical history),
physical examination (blood pressure
measurement, weight, urinalysis) has been
undertaken.
2. The records show that on the first assessment,
the ankle/brachial pressure index (ABPI) has been
measured.
12. The records show that products containing
lanolin or other potential allergens have not been
used on the patient.
13. The records show that topical antibiotics have
not been used on the patient.
* First assessment - a full assessment takes place
within two weeks of first contact with the patient
3. The records show that the ulcer size and wound
status (edge, base, position, surrounding skin) is
documented at the first assessment.
4. The records show a referral via general
practitioner to a specialist has been made in the
following situations: the ABPI is <0.8; the patient
is diabetic; there is suspected malignancy; foot
infection; healing has not started after 12 weeks of
compression bandaging.
5. The records show that a bacterial swab has only
been taken when there is evidence of clinical
infection for example, pyrexia, cellulitis, increased
pain and rapidly enlarging ulcer.
6. The records show that on the first assessment,
the patient’s pain level has been assessed and
where indicated, appropriate management
commenced.
7. The records show that the measurement of ABPI
has been undertaken at least three monthly or in
any of the following situations: sudden increase in
size of ulcer; ulcer becomes painful; change in
colour/temperature of foot/leg).
Management
8. The records show that patient with venous leg
ulcers and an ABPI ≥ 0.8 has received high
compression (multi-layer e.g. four-layer, threelayer or short stretch) bandaging.
9. The records show that the patient with a healed
ulcer has been educated about the need to wear,
and how to correctly apply, compression stockings.
10. The records show that when wound cleansing is
indicated, tap water or saline has been used for
cleansing.
11. The records show that the patient has received
simple, low-cost, non-adherent wound dressings
unless more costly dressings are indicated (for
example, odour, and excessive exudate).
4
The management of patients with venous leg ulcers
Summary
2.1
Assessment of Patients with Leg Ulcers
1. The records show that at the first assessment, a
clinical history (ulcer history, past medical history),
physical examination (blood pressure measurement,
weight, urinalysis) has been undertaken.
Justification
Lack of appropriate clinical assessment of patients
with limb ulceration in the community has often
led to long periods of ineffective and often
inappropriate treatment (Cornwall et al 1986; Roe
et al 1993; Stevens et al 1997; Elliott et al 1996). In
addition, inadequate diagnosis of ulcers of arterial
origin (Callam et al 1987a) leading to inadequate
treatment can have serious adverse consequences
for the patient (for example, ischaemia). It is
essential, therefore, that a patient presenting with
leg ulcers has a thorough clinical history and
physical examination (Callam and Ruckley 1992).
The clinical history and physical examination will
assist the identification of both the underlying
cause of leg ulcers and any associated diseases, and
will influence decisions about prognosis, referral,
investigation and management. If the practitioner
is unable to conduct a physical examination, they
must refer the patient to an appropriately trained
professional.
Ulcer history
Guideline recommendations indicate that
information relating to ulcer history should include:
the year of occurrence of the first ulcer; the site of
the ulcers and of any previous ulcers; the number of
previous episodes of ulceration; the time taken to
heal in previous episodes; the time free of ulcers;
past treatment methods; previous and current use of
compression hosiery (RCN et al 1998).
The ulcer history will enable consideration of
clinical factors that may impact on treatment and
healing progress, as well as provide baseline
information on ulcer history.
Medical history
Taking a medical history is an important part of the
assessment to identify the type of ulcer. The person
conducting the assessment must be aware that ulcers
may be arterial, diabetic, rheumatoid or malignant
and should record any unusual appearance.
This will assist the accurate identification of the
aetiology of the ulcer, which has major
implications for treatment choice (RCN et al 1998).
The management of patients with venous leg ulcers
Although methods and populations make
comparison between studies difficult, there is
general consensus on the aetiological factors and
the medical criteria used to define venous, nonvenous and mixed aetiology ulcers (Alexander
House Group 1992).
Arterial Ulcers - caused by an insufficient arterial
blood supply to lower limb, resulting in ischaemia
and necrosis (Belcarno et al 1983; Carter 1973).
Rheumatoid ulcers - are commonly described as
deep, well-demarcated and punched-out in
appearance. They are usually situated on the
dorsum of the foot or calf (Lambert and McGuire
1989) and are often slow to heal.
Diabetic ulcers - are usually found on the foot,
often over a bony prominence such as the bunion
area, or under the metatarsal heads, and usually
have a sloughy or necrotic appearance (Cullum and
Roe 1995). An ulcer in a diabetic patient may have
neuropathic, arterial and/or venous components
(Browse et al 1988; Nelzen et al 1993). It is
essential to identify the underlying aetiology.
Malignant ulcers - are a rare cause of ulceration
and exceptionally are a consequence of chronic
ulceration (Yang et al 1996; Baldursson et al 1995;
Ackroyd and Young 1983).
Physical examination
A good examination of the legs and the ulcers is
important to recognise the signs of chronic venous
insufficiency and arterial disease.
Venous disease
The ulcer is usually shallow (usually on the gaiter
area of leg) and may be associated with oedema,
eczema, ankle flare, lipodermatosclerosis, varicose
veins, hyperpigmentation, atrophie blanche.
Arterial disease
The ulcer has a ‘punched out’ appearance, and the
base of wound is poorly perfused and pale. Other
symptoms may include: cold legs/feet; shiny, taut
skin; dependent rubour; pale or blue feet;
gangrenous toes.
Assessment
5
2.1
Assessment of Patients with Leg Ulcers
Mixed venous/arterial
The ulcers have features of venous ulcer in
combination with signs of arterial impairment.
To assist in determining the type of ulcer the
criterion used for examining the appearance of the
ulcer is based on consensus statements, and
literature reviews that concur on well-known
features of the different types of ulcers (Browse
et al 1988; Alexander House Group 1992).
Other important elements of the assessment include
taking the patient’s blood pressure, weight and a
urinalysis. Blood pressure is taken to screen for
hypertension, and urinalysis is taken to screen for
undiagnosed diabetes mellitus.
Although there is some empirical evidence of
inadequate assessment in practice, there are no
studies that examine patient outcomes that
compare people who are given, or not given the
benefit of a full clinical history and physical
examination. The recommendations for what
should comprise a clinical history and physical
examinations are therefore based on consensus
opinion (RCN et al 1998).
Strength of evidence III
6
The management of patients with venous leg ulcers
Assessment
2. The records show that on the first assessment, the
ankle/brachial pressure index (ABPI) has been
measured.
3. The records show that the ulcer size and wound
status (edge, base, position, surrounding skin) is
documented at the first assessment.
Justification
Justification
Measurement of ABPI is to enable identification of
arterial disease for referral to specialist vascular
clinics and to assess the appropriateness for
compression bandaging. All patients must be given
the benefit of Doppler ultrasound measurement of
ABPI by an appropriately trained professional. This
prevents misdiagnosis that could result in
inappropriate therapy, with possibly serious
adverse consequences for the patient.
A detailed assessment and accurate written record
of ulcer characteristics should include the size, the
edge, and the base, position of the ulcer and its
surrounding skin.
Research suggests that diagnosis should not be
solely based on the absence/presence of pedal
pulses because there is generally poor agreement
between manual palpation and ABPI (Brearley et al
1992; Callam et al 1987b: Moffatt et al ,1994). Two
large studies have shown that 67% and 37% of
limbs respectively with an ABPI of <0.9 had
palpable foot pulses, with the consequent risk of
applying compression to people with arterial
disease (Moffatt et al 1995; Callam et al 1987b).
Serial measurement of size (length and width) of
the ulcer is a reliable index of healing. Appropriate
techniques include tracing of the margins,
measuring the two maximum perpendicular axes,
or photography (Stacey 1991). The ulcer edge often
gives a good indication of progress and should be
carefully documented (for example, shallow,
epithelialising, punched out, rolling). The base of
the ulcer should be described (for example,
granulating, sloughy, and necrotic). The position of
the ulcers should be clearly described (SIGN 1998).
Strength of evidence III
The importance of making an objective assessment
of the ulcer by measuring ABPI is highlighted by a
number of studies (Nelzen et al 1994; Moffatt et al
1994; Simon et al 1994).
Strength of evidence IAssessment of
Patients with Leg Ulcers
The management of patients with venous leg ulcers
Assessment
7
2.1
Assessment of Patients with Leg Ulcers
4. The records show a referral via general
practitioner to a specialist has been made in the
following situations: the ABPI is <0.8; the patient is
diabetic; there is suspected malignancy; foot
infection; healing has not started after 12 weeks of
compression bandaging.
Justification
Although no studies examining the outcomes of
patients with leg ulcers referred from primary care
or between health professionals within primary
care were found, the principal criteria for
appropriate referral are widely agreed by experts.
There is good evidence suggesting that patients
may not be referred appropriately for specialist
assessment. One study of district nurse records
indicated that only 35% of leg ulcer patients were
referred at any stage for a specialist assessment,
and only 7% had been examined by a vascular
surgeon (Lees and Lambert 1992). Nevertheless,
most of the nurses in this study felt that further
investigation of patients was necessary. Another
study found that only six of 146 nurses would refer
patients with rheumatoid or diabetic ulcers for
specialist advice (Roe et al 1993).
Urgent vascular referral
An urgent vascular referral should be made in the
following circumstances:
◆ the patient has an acutely infected or
ischaemic foot
◆ there is an ischaemic complication from
compression bandaging.
Routine vascular referral
The patient should be referred to the vascular
surgeon if:
◆ venous ulcers treated for three months have not
improved
◆ ulcers fail to heal completely in one year
◆ patients with healed ulcers and a history of
varicose veins with a view to surgery
◆ there is suspected malignancy.
Referral to dermatologist
The patient should be referred to the dermatologist
if there is:
◆ a rash associated with the ulcer
◆ recurrent contact dermatitis
◆ unusual or atypical ulcers
◆ cellulitis, especially recurrent
◆ inflammatory reaction around the ulcer.
Referral to diabetologist
The patient should be referred to the diabetologist
if there is:
◆ newly diagnosed diabetes
◆ unstable diabetes
◆ diabetic complications of the lower limbs
◆ neuropathy.
Strength of evidence III
Urgent physician /dermatologist referral
The patient with severe cellulitis causing systemic
toxicity should be referred to the on-call
physician/dermatologist.
8
The management of patients with venous leg ulcers
Assessment
Assessment of Patients with Leg Ulcers
5. The records show that a bacterial swab has only
been taken when there is evidence of clinical
infection. For example, pyrexia, cellulitis, increased
pain and rapidly enlarging ulcer.
6. The records show that on the first assessment, the
patient’s pain level has been assessed and where
indicated, appropriate management commenced.
Justification
Justification
Routine bacteriological swabbing is unnecessary
unless there is evidence of clinical infection such
as:
◆ inflammation/ redness/ evidence of cellulitis
◆ increased pain
◆ purulent exudate
◆ rapid deterioration of the ulcer
◆ pyrexia.
The influence of bacteria on ulcer healing has been
examined in a number of studies (Trengove et al
1996; Skene et al 1992; Ericksson et al 1984), and
most have found that ulcer healing is not
influenced by the presence of bacteria.
Strength of evidence I
Leg ulcers are frequently painful. A significant
proportion of patients with venous ulcers report
moderate to severe pain (Dunn 1997; Hamer et al
1994; Walshe 1995; Steven et al 1997; Cullum and
Roe 1995; Hofman et al 1997). However, one
survey found that 55% of district nurses did not
routinely assess pain in patients with leg ulcers
(Roe et al 1993). Increased pain on mobility may be
associated with poorer healing rates (Johnson
1995), and may also be a sign of some underlying
pathology such as arterial disease or infection
(indicating that the patient may require referral for
specialised assessment).
Leg elevation is important since it can aid venous
return and reduce pain and swelling in some
patients. However, leg elevation may make the pain
worse in others (Hofman et al 1997). Compression
counteracts the harmful effects of venous
hypertension and compression may relieve pain
(Franks et al 1995).
Strength of the evidence II
The management of patients with venous leg ulcers
Assessment
9
2.1
Assessment of Patients with Leg Ulcers
7. The records show that the measurement of ABPI
has been undertaken at least three-monthly or in
any of the following situations: sudden increase in
size of ulcer; ulcer became painful; change in
colour/temperature of foot/leg.
Justification
Arterial disease may develop in patients with
venous disease (Sindrup et al 1987; Callam et al
1987c; Scriven et al 1997) and significant
reductions in ABPI can occur over relatively short
periods (Nelzen et al 1994; Simon et al 1994;
Scriven et al 1997). ABPI will also fall with age.
Strength of evidence II
10
The management of patients with venous leg ulcers
Assessment
2.2
Management of Patients with Venous Leg Ulcers
8. The records show that patients with venous leg
ulcer and an ABPI ≥ 0.8 have received high
compression (multi-layer – that is four-layer, threelayer, or short stretch) bandaging.
9. The records show that the patient with a healed
ulcer has been educated about the need to wear and
how to correctly apply compression stockings.
Justification
Justification
Compression therapy is the most important element
of treatment of venous leg ulcers (Effective Health
Care Bulletin, 1997). Research has shown that
compression improved healing rates compared to
treatments using no compression (Rubin et al 1990;
Eriksson et al 1984), and is also more cost-effective
because the faster healing rate saved nursing time
(Taylor et al 1992 unpublished).
There is reliable evidence that high compression
(25-35 mmHg - Thomas 1990) achieves better
healing rates than low compression (Callam et al
1992). Research has shown the benefits of multilayer high compression system over single layer
(Nelson et al 1995b; Travers et al 1992).
Compression hosiery is an important element in the
prevention of recurrence of venous ulceration
(Effective Health Care Bulletin, 1997). One trial has
shown that three to five year recurrence rates were
lower in patients using strong support from class
three compression stockings (21%) than in those
randomised to receive medium support from class
two compression stockings (32%). Class two
stockings, however, were better tolerated by
patients (Harper et al 1995).
Strength of the evidence II
It is important to apply compression bandages
correctly. Research has shown that incorrectly
applied compression bandages may be harmful or
ineffective and may predispose the patient to
cellulitis or skin breakdown. It has been shown that
more experienced or well-trained bandagers obtain
better and more consistent pressure results (Logan
et al 1992; Nelson et al 1995a).
Strength of the evidence I
The management of patients with venous leg ulcers
Cleansing, Debridement,Dressings, Contact Sensitivety
11
2.3
Cleansing, Debridement, Dressings, Contact Sensitivity
10. The records show that when wound cleansing is
indicated, tap water or saline has been used for
cleansing.
11. The records show that the patient has received
simple, low cost, non - adherent wound dressings
unless more costing dressing are indicated (for
example, odour, excessive exudate).
Justification
Wounds and skin are colonised with bacteria that
do not appear to impede healing. The purpose of
the dressing technique is not to remove bacteria
but rather to avoid cross-infection with sources of
contamination – for example, other sites of patient
or other patients. A trial of clean versus aseptic
technique in the cleansing of tracheotomy wounds
failed to demonstrate any difference in infection
rates between the two methods (Sachine-Kardase et
al 1992). There are no trials comparing aseptic
technique with clean technique in cleaning chronic
wounds, including leg ulcers.
There is no evidence that the use of antiseptics
confers any benefit to preventing infection. In one
study, cleansing traumatic wounds with tap water
was associated with a lower rate of clinical
infection when compared to sterile isotonic saline
(Angeras et al 1992).
Justification
There is strong evidence that the type of wound
dressing has no effect on ulcer healing. A recent
systematic review (Nelson et al 1997) has
concluded that hydrocolloid dressings confer no
benefit over simple, low-adherent dressings. The
most important aspect of treatment is the
application of high compression bandaging. In the
absence of evidence, wound dressings should be
low cost, simple to reduce risk of contact sensitivity
and low, or non-adherent, to avoid any damage to
the ulcer bed (RCN et al 1998).
Strength of evidence I
Strength of the evidence III
12
The management of patients with venous leg ulcers
Cleansing, Debridement,Dressings, Contact Sensitivety
Cleansing, Debridement, Dressings, Contact Sensitivity
12. The records show that products containing
lanolin or other potential allergens have not been
used on the patient.
Justification
Patients with venous leg ulcers have variable rates
of sensitivity to products containing potential
allergens. Preparations commonly used as part of
the leg ulcer treatment reported to cause contact
sensitivity in certain individuals are listed below.
Frequency of contact sensitivity and the
commonest allergens in leg ulcer patients have
been examined in a number of studies (Blondeel et
al 1978; Kulozik et al 1988; Cameron 1990;
Cameron et al1991; Dooms-Goossens et al 1979;
Frake et al 1979; Malten and Kuiper 1985;
Paramsothy et al 1988).
Strength of evidence III
List of common allergens
Type
Name of allergen
Potential source
Lanolin
wool alcohol, amerchol 101
bath additives, creams, emollients, barriers
and some baby products
Rubber
mercapto / carba/ thiuram mix
elastic bandages and supports, elastic stockings,
latex gloves worn by carer
Perfume
fragrance mix, Balsam of Peru
bath oils, over the counter preparations such as
moisturisers and baby products
Preservatives
parabens (hydroxybenzoates)
medicaments, creams and paste bandages
Vehicle
cetyl alcohol, stearyl alcohol,
cetylstearyl alcohol, paste bandages
most creams, including corticosteriod creams,
aqueous cream, emulsifying ointment and some
Adhesive
resin colophony, ester of rosin
adhesive backed bandages and dressings
The management of patients with venous leg ulcers
Cleansing, Debridement,Dressings, Contact Sensitivety
13
2.3
Cleansing, Debridement, Dressings, Contact Sensitivity
13. The records show that topical antibiotics have
not been used on the patient.
Justification
Colonisation of venous leg ulcers is the norm
(Skene et al 1992) and there is no firm evidence
that it slows ulcer healing (Trengove et al 1996).
The use of antibiotics therefore, should be kept to a
minimum to discourage an increase in antibiotic
resistant bacteria. Topical antibiotics should not be
applied on patients with leg ulcers. The criterion is
supported by consensus opinion (RCN et al 1998).
Strength of evidence III
List of topical antibodies
Topical antibiotics
14
Examples
Source
neomycin, framycetin, bacitracin
medicaments, tulle dressings, antibiotic creams
and ointments
The management of patients with venous leg ulcers
Cleansing, Debridement,Dressings, Contact Sensitivety
3.
Introducing Change
The primary health care team will need to make
sure that all concerned have the opportunity to
study the findings. A multi-disciplinary seminar
or discussion meeting at a local level may be
appropriate to discuss the findings. Identify the
criteria and standards of which you did less well
and identify the possible reasons why. Your team
will then need an agreed action plan to improve leg
ulcer care. Consider the following suggestions:
◆ an educational and training programme for
district nurses and practice nurses and general
practitioners
◆ a revised policy for the assessment and
management of patients with leg ulcers
◆ the introduction of a structured assessment form
◆ use of a computer record for patients with leg
ulcers
◆ liaison with local tissue viability specialists,
vascular surgeons, dermatologists,
rheumatologists and diabetologists.
◆ keep any change as simple as possible to
implement.
The organisation - community NHS trust
◆ discuss the findings at manager level
◆ compare the results with the national average of
standards. Identify strengths and weaknesses
◆ consider the following suggestions for strategies
for implementation of the clinical guideline
recommendations:
◆ providing resources (personnel, facilities, time,
equipment etc) for regular training and
education
◆ introducing new technologies (health
technology and information technology) into
primary care
◆ developing a local structured assessment form
for leg ulcers.
◆
support from other agencies such as the RCN or
local clinical audit office.
For more information see the Implementation
Guide in this series.
The management of patients with venous leg ulcers
Intoducing Change
15
References
Ackroyd JS, Young AE 1983 Leg ulcers that do not
heal. BMJ; 286 (6360):207-8.
Ahroni JH, Boyko EJ, Pecoraro RE 1992 Reliability
of computerised wound surface area
determinations. Wounds: a compendium of clinical
research and practice; 4(4):133-7.
Alexander House Group. Consensus paper on
venous leg ulcers 1992 Phlebology; 7:48-58.
Angeras HM, Brandberg A, Falk A, Seeman T 1992
Comparison between sterile saline and tap water
for the cleansing of acute soft tissue wounds.
European Journal of Surgery;158:347-50.
Baker R, Fraser RC 1995 Development of review
criteria: linking guidelines and assessment of
quality. BMJ; 311: 370-3.
Baldursson B, Sigureirsson B and Lindelof B 1995
Venous leg ulcers and squamous cell carcinoma: a
large scale epidemiological study. Br J
Dermatology; 133:571-574.
Belcaro G et al 1983 Arterial pressure measurements
correlated to symptoms and signs or peripheral
arterial disease. Acta Chir Belg; 83 (5):320-6.
Blondeel A, Oleffe J, Achten G 1978 Contact allergy
in 330 dermatological patients. Contact Dermatitis;
4(5):270-6.
Brearley SM, Simms MH, Shearman CP 1992
Peripheral pulse palpation: an unreliable physical
sign. Annals of the Royal College of Surgeons of
England; 74:169-171.
Browse NL, Burns KG, Lea Thomas M 1988
Diseases of the veins: Pathology, Diagnosis and
treatment. Edward Arnold. London.
Buntinx F, Becker H, Briers MD, De Keyser G, Flour
M, Nissen G, Raskin T, De Vet H 1996 Interobserver variation in the assessment of skin
ulceration. J of Wound Care; 5(4):166-169.
Callam MJ 1992 Prevalence of chronic leg
ulceration and severe chronic disease in Western
Countries. Phlebology Supplement; 1:6-12.
Callam M, Harper D R, Dale JJ et al 1992Lothian
Forth Valley leg ulcer healing trial - part 1: elastic
versus non-elastic bandaging in the treatment of
chronic leg ulceration. Phlebology; 7:136-41.
Callam MJ, Harper DR, Dale JJ et al 1987b Arterial
disease in chronic leg ulceration: an
underestimated hazard? Lothian and Forth Valley
leg ulcer study. BMJ; 294 (6577):929-31.
Callam MJ, Ruckley C, Dale JJ et al 1987c Hazards
of compression treatment of the leg: an estimate
from Scottish surgeons. BMJ; 295:1382.
Cameron J 1990 Patch testing for leg ulcer patients.
Nursing Times (Wound Care Suppl); 86(25):63-75.
Cameron J, Wilson C, Powerll S, Cherry GW, Tyan T
1991 An update on contact dermatitis in leg ulcer
patients. Symposium on Advanced Wound Care.
San Francisco 7,8,9, 26.
Carter SA 1973 The relationship of distal systolic
pressures to healing of skin lesions in limbs with
arterial occlusive disease, with special reference to
diabetes mellitus. Scand J Clin Lab Invest; 31:239
(suppl 128).
Cornwall JV, Dore CJ, Lewis JD 1986 Leg ulcers:
epidemiology and aetiology. Br J Surg; 73
(9):693-6.
Corson JD, Jacobs RL, Karmody AM, Leather RP,
Shah DM 1986 The diabetic foot. Curr Probl Surg;
10:725-88.
Cullum N, Fletcher A, Semylen A, Sheldon TA 1997
Compression therapy for venous leg ulcers. Quality
in Health Care; 6:226-231.
Cullum N and Roe B 1995 Leg ulcers nursing
management - a research-based guide. Bailliere
Tindall: London.
Dooms-Goossens A, Degreef H, Parijs M, Maertens
M 1979 A retrospective study of patch test results
from 163 patients with stasis dermatitis or leg
ulcers. II. Retesting of 50 patients. Dermatology;
159(3):231-8.
Douglas WS, Simpson NB 1995 Guidelines for the
management of chronic venous leg ulceration.
Report of a multidisciplinary workshop. British
Journal of Dermatology; 132: 446-452.
Dunn C, Beegan A, Morris S 1997 Towards
evidence based practice. Focus on Venous ulcers
Mid term Review Progress Report compiled for
Kings Fund PACE project. London Kings Fund.
Callam MJ, Harper DR, Dale JJ et al 1987a Chronic
ulcer of the leg: clinical history, BMJ; 294
(6584):1389-91.
16
The management of patients with venous leg ulcers
References
References
Effective Health Care Bulletin. Compression
therapy for venous leg ulcers 1997 NHS Centre for
Reviews and Dissemination, University of York,
August; 3(4).
Elliott E, Russell B, Jaffrey G 1996 Setting a
standard for leg ulcer assessment. J of Wound Care;
5(4):173-175.
Eriksson G, Eklund A, Liden S et al 1984
Comparison of different treatments of venous leg
ulcers: a controlled study using
stereophotogrammetry. Curr Ther Res; 35:678-84.
Etris MB, Pribble J, LaBrecque J 1994 Evaluation of
two wound measurement methods in a multicenter, controlled study. Ostomy Wound
Management; 40(7):44-48.
Fletcher A, Cullum N, Sheldon TA 1997 A
systematic review of compression therapy for
venous leg ulcers. BMJ; 315:576-579.
Frake JE, Peltonen L, Hopsu-Havu VK 1979 Allergy
to various components of topical preparations in
stasis dermatitis and leg ulcer. Contact Dermatitis;
5(2):97-100.
Franks PJ, Oldroyd MI, Dickson D et al 1995 Risk
factors for leg ulcer recurrence: a randomized trial
of two types of compression stocking. Age and
Ageing; 24:4490-4494.
Gould DJ, Campbell S, Harding EF. Short stretch
versus long stretch bandages in the treatment of
chronic venous ulcers. Unpublished.
Hamer C, Cullum NA, Roe BH 1994 Patients’
perceptions of chronic leg ulcers. J of Wound Care;
3(2):99-102.
Harper DR, Nelson EA, Gibson B et al 1995 A
prospective randomised trial of class 2 and class 3
elastic compression in the prevention of venous
ulceration. Phlebology; suppl1:872-873.
Hofman D, Ryan TJ, Arnold F, Cherry GW,
Lindholm C, Bjellerup M, Glynn C 1997 Pain in
venous leg ulcers. J of Wound Care; 6(5):222-224.
Johnson M 1995 Patient characteristics and
environmental factors in leg ulcer healing.
J. Wound Care; 4(6):277-282.
Johnson M and Miller R 1996 Measuring healing in
leg ulcers: practice considerations. Applied Nursing
Research; 9(4):204-208.
The management of patients with venous leg ulcers
Kralj B, Kosicek M Randomized comparative trial
of single-layer and multi-layer bandages in the
treatment of venous leg ulcers. Unpublished.
Kulozik M, Powell SM, Cherry G, Ryan TJ 1988
Contact sensitivity in community-based leg ulcer
patients. Clin Exp Dermatol; 13(2); 82-4.
Lambert E, McGuire J 1989 Rheumatoid leg ulcers
are notoriously difficult to manage. How can one
distinguish them from gravitational and large vessel
ischaemic ulceration? What is the most effective
treatment? Br J Rheumatol; 28 (5):421.
Lees TA and Lambert D 1992 Prevalence of lower
limb ulceration in an urban health district. Br J
Surg; 79:1032-1034.
Liskay AM, Mion LC, Davis BR 1993 Comparison of
two devices for wound measurement. Dermatology
Nursing; 5(6):437-440.
Logan RA, Thomas S, Harding EF, Collyer GJ 1992
A comparison on sub-bandage pressures produced
by experienced and inexperienced bandagers. J of
Wound Care; 1(3):23-26.
Majeske C 1992 Reliability of wound surface area
measurements. Physical Therapy; 72(2):138-41.
Malten KE, Kuiper JP 1985 Contact allergic
reactions in 100 selected patients with ulcus cruris.
Vasa; 14(4):340-5.
Moffatt CJ, Franks PJ, Oldroyd M, Bosanquet N,
Brown P, Greenhalgh, McCollum CN 1992
Community clinics for leg ulcers and impact on
healing. BMJ; 305(5):1389-1392.
Moffatt CJ, Oldroyd MI, Greenhalgh RM, Franks PJ
1994 Palpating ankle pulses is insufficient in
detecting arterial insufficiency in patients with leg
ulceration. Phlebology; 9:170-172.
Moffatt CJ and O’Hare L 1995 Ankle pulses are not
sufficient to detect impaired arterial circulation in
patients with leg ulcers. Journal of Wound Care;
4(3):134-137.
Nelson EA, Ruckley CV, Barbenel JC 1995a
Improvements in bandaging technique following
training. Journal of Wound Care; 4(4):181-184.
Nelson EA, Harper DE, Ruckley CV et al 1995b A
randomized trial of single layer and multi-layer
bandages in the treatment of chronic venous
ulceration. Phlebology; suppl 1:915-916.
References
17
References
Nelson EA and Jones JE 1997 The development,
implementation and evaluation of an educational
initiative in leg ulcer management. Research and
Development Unit, Department of Nursing,
University of Liverpool
Nelzen O, Bergqvist D, Lindhagen A 1993 High prevalence
of diabetes in chronic leg ulcer patients: a cross-sectional
population study. Diabetic Medicine; 10:345-350.
Nelzen O, Bergqvist D, Lindhagen A 1994 Venous
and non-venous leg ulcers: clinical history and
appearance in a population study. Br Journal of
Surgery; 81:182-187.
Northeast A, Layer G, Wilson N et al 1990
Increased compression expedites venous ulcer
healing. Presented at Royal Society of Medicine
Venous Forum. London: RSM
Paramsothy Y, Collins M, Smith AG 1988 Contact
dermatitis in patients with leg ulcers. The
prevalence of late positive reactions and evidence
against systemic ampliative allergy. Contact
Dermatitis; 18(1):30-6.
RCN Institute, Centre for Evidence Based Nursing,
University of York, and the School of Nursing,
Midwifery and Health Visiting, University of
Manchester, 1998, Clinical practice guidelines for the
management of patients with venous leg ulcers:
recommendations for assessment, compression therapy,
cleansing, debridement, dressings, contact sensitivity,
training/education and quality assurance.
Roe BH, Luker KA, Cullum NA, Griffiths JM,
Kenrick M 1993 Assessment, prevention and
monitoring of chronic leg ulcers in the community:
report of a survey. J of Clin Nurs; 2:299-306.
Rubin J, Alexander J, Plecha E et al 1990 Unna’s
boot vs polyurethane foam dressings for the
treatment of venous ulceration. A randomized
prospective study. Arch Surg; 125:489-90.
Sachine-Kardase A, Bardake Z, Basileiadou A,
Dimpinoydes, Ouxoyne A, Patse O 1992 Study of
clean versus aseptic technique of tracheotomy care
based on the level of pulmonary infection.
Noseleutike; 31(141):201-11.
Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network: The care
of patients with chronic leg ulcer. SIGN July 1998.
Simon DA, Freak L, Williams IM, McCollum CN 1994
Progression of arterial disease in patients with healed
venous ulcers. J of Wound Care; 3(4):179-180.
Sindrup JH, Groth S, Avnstorp C, Tonnesen KH,
Kristensen JK 1987 Coexistence of obstructive
arterial disease and chronic venous stasis in leg
ulcer patients. Clin Exp Dermatol; 12(6):160-3.
Skene AI, Smith JM, Dore CJ, Charlett A, Lewis JD
1992 Venous leg ulcers: a prognostic index to
predict time to healing. BMJ; 7:1191-1121.
Stacey MC, Burnadnd KG, Layer GT, Pattison M,
Browse NL 1991 Measurement of the healing of
venous ulcers. Aust N Z J Surg; 61:844-8.
Stevens J, Franks PJ, Harrington MA 1997
community/hospital leg ulcer service. J of Wound
Care; 6(2):62-68.
Taylor P 1992 An examination of the problems and
perceptions patients’ experience in complying with
venous leg ulcer management. Unpublished
Bachelor of Nursing Dissertation, Swansea Institute
Library, Swansea.
Thomas S, Bandagers and Bandaging 1990 Nursing
Standards; Vol. 4; No. 39; pp46-47.
Thompson B A 1993 A management protocol for
leg ulcers. Wound Management; 4: 81-84.
Travers J, Dalziel K, Makin G 1992 Assessment of
new one-layer adhesive bandaging method in
maintaining prolonged limb compression and effects
on venous ulcer healing. Phlebology; 7:59-63.
Trengove NJ, Stacey MC, McGechie DF, Mata S
1996 Qualitative bacteriology and leg ulcer
healing. J of Wound Care; 5(6):277-280.
Waddell G, Feder G, McIntosh A, Lewis M,
Hutchinson A 1996 Low Back Pain Evidence
Review. London: Royal College of General
Practitioners.
Walshe C 1995 Living with a venous ulcer: a
descriptive study of patients’ experiences. Journal
of Advanced Nursing; 22(6):92-100.
Yang D, Morrison BD, Vandongen YK, Singh A,
Stacey MC 1996 Malignancy in chronic leg ulcers.
Med J Aust; 164:718-721.
Scriven JM, Hartshorne T, Bell PRF, Naylor AR,
London NJM. Single-visit venous ulcer assessment
clinic: the first year. Br J of Surg 1997; 84:334-336.
18
The management of patients with venous leg ulcers
References
Sources of Further Information
Useful contact addresses:
Tissue Viability Society
Glanville Centre
Salisbury district Hospital
Salisbury SP2 8BJ.
Tel: 01722 336262
http://www.tvs.org.uk/
Quality Improvement Programme
Information Service
RCN
20 Cavendish Square
London W1M 0AB
Tel: 020 7647 3831
http://www.rcn.org.uk
The Audit Commission
1 Vincent Square
London SW1P 2PN
Tel: 020 7828 1212
http://www.audit-commission.gov.uk/
Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network
The SIGN secretariat
Royal College of Physicians
9 Queen Street
Edinburgh EH2 1JQ
Tel: 0131 225 7324
http://www.show.scot.nhs.uk/sign/home.htm
The Cochrane Wounds Group
Department of Health Studies
University of York.
York Y01 5DD
Tel: 01904 43411
http://www.york.ac.uk/depts/hstd/centres/evidence
/ev-intro.htm#cochrane-wounds-group
Clinical Governance Research and Development Unit
Department of General Practice and Primary Health
Care
University of Leicester
Leicester General Hospital
Leicester LE5 4PW
Tel: 0116 258 4873
http://www.le.ac.uk/cgrdu/index.html
NICE (National Institute for Clinical Excellence)
90 Long Acre
London, WC2E 9RZ
Tel: 020 7849 3444
http://www.nice.org.uk
The management of patients with venous leg ulcers
Sources
19
Appendix 1. Documentation
Development of review criteria
Based on the national clinical guideline for leg
ulcer management (RCN et al 1998), the review
criteria were developed according to a method
developed by researchers in the Clinical
Governance Research and Development Unit (Baker
et al 1995; Fraser et al 1997)
The method involved:
identification of the key elements of care
◆ focused systematic reviews based on the
national clinical practice guideline (RCN et al
1998) and justified by evidence
◆ taking into account consensus based
recommendation considered to have an
important impact on outcome
◆ presentation of the criteria in a protocol.
◆
The standards
A standard in this audit protocol refers to the level
of performance for each criterion, to which
community nurses are aiming. The purpose of
criteria and standards is to assist in the
improvement of care. The ultimate aim for most of
the criteria is the achievement of a standard of
100%, although it is recognised that there may be
perfectly acceptable reasons for falling short of this
level on some occasions in relation to some criteria.
20
The management of patients with venous leg ulcers
Appendix 1: Audit Form
Appendix 2. Nursing Management of Venous Leg Ulcers in
the Community: Audit Form
Please read the Instructions for audit form before you complete the form.
Date completed:
Ref. No. _______________ DOB ____________ Sex: M ❑
F❑
First assessment by district nurse ❑
practice nurse ❑
specialist nurse ❑
other ______ grade ______
Patient mostly seen at home ❑
general clinic ❑
leg ulcer clinic ❑
other _________________
Patient mostly seen by district nurse ❑
practice nurse ❑
specialist nurse ❑
other ______ grade ______
Q 1. A clinical history and physical examination at assessment visit
Has the medical history been documented?
yes ❑ no ❑
Has BP been recorded?
yes ❑ no ❑
Has urinalysis been undertaken?
yes ❑ no ❑
Has weight been recorded?
yes ❑ no ❑
Did record show that patient had a previous ulcer history ?
yes ❑ no ❑
If yes, have the following items been documented?
duration of previous ulcer ❑
number ❑ method of treatment ❑
time to heal ❑
type ❑
site ❑
First assessment visit: a full assessment takes place within two weeks of first contact of leg ulcer patient
Q 2. Doppler ABPI at first assessment visit
yes ❑ no ❑
If not applicable, reason_____________________________________________________________
Level of ABPI
L __________
R __________
Q 3. Has ulcer(s) size been measured at first assessment visit?
If yes, was this by: tape measure ❑
mapping ❑
other ______________________________
yes ❑ no ❑ date measured__________
photograph ❑
Ulcer 1: length __cm width __cm duration of ulcer __mth
Ulcer 2: length __cm width __cm duration of ulcer __mth
Ulcer 3: length __cm width __cm duration of ulcer __mth
Q 4. Has pain assessment been undertaken?
length and width ❑
is this a recurrent ulcer?
is this a recurrent ulcer?
is this a recurrent ulcer?
yes ❑ no ❑
yes ❑ no ❑
yes ❑ no ❑
yes ❑ no ❑
Is the ulcer painful?
yes ❑ no ❑
If yes, did patient receive analgesia?
yes ❑ no ❑
Please complete the following items at the end of the audit period or if patient is lost to follow-up/is
referred/ulcer healed/patient died. Date of completion: __________________________________________
Q 5. Referral
Was referral made? yes ❑ no ❑ if yes, reasons: ____________________ date of referral_________
Referred to: specialist nurse ❑
GP ❑ vascular surgeon ❑ dermatologist ❑
other ______________________________
diabetologist ❑
Q 6. Bacterial swab
Has a bacterial swab been taken? yes ❑ no ❑
was ulcer infected? yes ❑ no ❑
Please turn over page
The management of patients with venous leg ulcers
Appendix 2: Audit Form
21
Appendix 2. Nursing Management of Venous Leg Ulcers in the
Community: Audit Form
Q 7. Leg ulcer re-assessment
yes ❑ no ❑
Has measurement of ulcer(s) size been repeated?
If yes, has ulcer size been repeated at every __________wk/wks
Q 8. Graduated compression
yes ❑ no ❑ if not applicable, reasons ___________________________
If yes, type of bandage used
Setopress ❑ Surepress ❑ Tensopress ❑ Comprilan ❑
Robertson’s Ultra 4 ❑
Rosidal K ❑ 4 layer bandage ❑ Class 2/3 hosiery ❑
other – list no more than five products __________________________________________________
Q 9. Which cleansing agent was used?
tap water ❑ normal saline ❑
none r
other – list no more than five products __________________________________________________
Q10. Which dressings were used? Hydrocolloid ❑
Foam ❑
Alginate ❑ Tulle gras ❑ NA Tricotex r
other – please state __________________________________________________
Q11. Skin care
Have you used any skin care preparation?
yes ❑ no ❑
If yes, was it: emollient ❑ steroid cream or ointment ❑
Q12. Outcome
died ❑
if other, please state________________
healed ❑
improved ❑ no change ❑ referral ❑
leg ulcer related admission ❑
other __________________________________________________
If ulcer(s) completely healed, please indicate the time to heal:
Ulcer 1 __________wks
Ulcer 2 ________wks
Ulcer 3 ________wks
Q13. Prevention of recurrence
Did patient receive education on compression stockings?
yes ❑ no ❑
If ulcer healed, did patient receive compression stockings?
yes ❑ no ❑ not applicable ❑
If not applicable, please give reasons ____________________________________________________
Q14. Work load
On average, how many visits a week (leg ulcer care only)? _______________
Total number of visits (leg ulcer care only) ______
Average time for each visit <20 mins ❑ 20 mins ❑
(excluding travel time)
22
The management of patients with venous leg ulcers
30 mins ❑
40 mins ❑
>40 ❑
Appendix 2: Audit Form
Appendix 2. Instructions for Audit Form
Which patients are included in this audit?
Patients diagnosed with venous leg ulcers are included in the project. This includes new patients, patients
who are in the process of treatment and patients who have a recurrent ulcer. This retrospective audit will
include patients with venous leg ulcers under your care at the present time. All patients who participate in the
audit project should have a sticker on their case records and an audit form attached.
Data collection - one form per patient
You should use one audit form for each individual patient. Questions 1 to 4 should be completed for patients
with venous leg ulcers at the start of the audit. Questions 5 to 14 should be completed at the end of the audit
or if the patient is lost to follow-up/ is referred/ has a healed ulcer/ has died. Please state the date of completion.
General information
The beginning of the form is general information about the patient. The reference number will be the patient’s
case record number or any code number for identifying the patient locally.
Q 1. A clinical history and physical examination has been undertaken at the first assessment.
Previous ulcer history - if the patient has a leg ulcer history, the yes box should be ticked, and the follow-up
questions answered according to available information in the case notes at the time of the assessment visit.
Medical history - the yes box should only be ticked when a full medical history is documented in the case
records. The no box ticked if there is no medical history documented (if a patient does not have a history of
relevant medical conditions for example, vascular disease, coronary heart disease etc, it must be documented
at the assessment visit). BP, urinalysis, weight - the yes box should only be ticked where those items were
undertaken and documented at the assessment visit.
Q 2. Doppler ABPI (ankle/brachial pressure index) has been measured at the first assessment visit.
Yes box is ticked when ABPI has been measured within two weeks of first contact. If yes, please state the
date of assessment and the level of ABPI. If a Doppler machine is not available in the team or practice or for
any other reason the ABPI could not be undertaken, please tick the not applicable box and state the reason.
Q 3. Ulcers recorded at first assessment
The yes box should only be ticked when the ulcer size is documented at the first assessment visit. Please
indicate how you measure ulcer size normally. If you use any other method of measurement, please tick other
and state the method you have used. If the patient has more than one ulcer on both legs, please describe ulcer
two or add ulcer three if necessary. If more than three ulcers, please document the largest three sites.
Q 4. Pain assessment
The yes box should only be ticked where pain assessment has been undertaken on the patient at the
assessment visit. For analgesia, the yes box should be ticked when the patient has received analgesia from any
professional.
Form
Q 5. Referral
If the patient needs to be referred to a specialist, please give the date of referral, the main reason for referral
and tick the type of specialist to which you have referred your patient. For most practices, the referral will go
to the GP first. In this situation, please tick GP and also tick any other specialist to which you consider the
patient should be referred.
Q 6. Bacterial swab
If the yes box is ticked, please state the reasons.
The management of patients with venous leg ulcers
Appendix 2: Audit Form
23
Appendix 2. Instructions for Audit Form 2. Instructions for Audit
Q 7. Leg ulcer re-assessment
If yes box is ticked, please indicate how often the ulcer size has been re-measured.
Q 8. Graduated compression
Please indicate the products you have used on this patient (for the whole time of treatment) and tick more than
one type of bandage if necessary. For other, please do not list more than five products. If the patient was not
suitable for high compression (for example, acute heart failure, rheumatoid arthritis, grossly distended leg or
any other reasons), please tick not applicable and state the reason.
Q 9. Cleansing agent
As you might use different agents for the patient during care, please tick the one you used most commonly more than one if necessary. If you have used other cleansing agents, please list no more than five products.
Q10. Dressings
This applies to all dressings you have used for this patient during the whole treatment period. Please tick more
than one if necessary. If you tick other, please list up no more than five products you have used.
Q11. Skin care
If yes, please tick the preparation you have used - you can tick more than one box if it is necessary. If you tick other,
please state no more than five products.
Q12. Outcome
Please indicate the outcome for this patient. If the ulcer healed, please indicate the time to heal the ulcer(s). If
the patient has more than one ulcer or ulcers on both legs, please describe the outcome of ulcer 2 or add ulcer
3 if necessary.
Q13. Prevention of recurrence
For patients who have received education on compression stockings, the yes box should only be ticked if this
has been documented. If the ulcer is not healed by the end of the audit, or is not suitable for compression
stockings, please tick not applicable and state the reasons.
Q14. Work load
Number of visits a week - this will be the average number of visits per week in the period of care/or for most of
the period of care. The average time for each visit will not include the first visit and will exclude travel time.
Where should you send the completed forms?
Once you have completed the form, please ensure all the items are filled in. The completed form should be sent
back to the project leader in your organisation. Please make a photocopy of each form before sending it.
24
The management of patients with venous leg ulcers
Appendix 2: Audit Form
The management of patients with venous leg ulcers
Notes
25
26
The management of patients with venous leg ulcers
Notes
RCN Members
£3.50
Non RCN Members
£4.50
© Copyright 2000: Royal College of Nursing. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or
transmitted in any form or by any means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission of the Publishers or a
licence permitting restricted copying issued by the Copyright Licensing Agency, 90 Tottenham Court Road, London W1P 9HE. This publication may not
be lent, resold, hired out or otherwise disposed of by way of trade in any form of binding or cover other than that in which it is published, without the
prior consent of the Publishers.
ISBN 1-873853-89-0
Publication code: 001 269