Lower limb ulceration is a common, debilitating and costly condition that accounts for over one third of chronic wounds in the UK. The most common underlying causes of leg and foot ulceration are venous insufficiency, arterial insufficiency, lymphoedema and diabetic neuropathy. More than half of leg ulcers do not have a recorded diagnosis and are unlikely to receive appropriate care. Poor care can cost up to ten times as much as appropriate care. The Legs Matter campaign aims to change this situation through a public health campaign supported by a website: http://legsmatter.org. The website provides clearly written, easily accessible information for patients, the public and generalist healthcare professionals along with signposts to reputable sources of information. In this way, the campaign aims to raise awareness that leg and foot conditions can be improved with the right care.
The second in this four-part series exploring leg ulcer management and understanding compression therapy examines the role of assessment as the basis for optimal clinical practice. The authors explore how the findings of thorough assessment can influence treatment choice. Adopting an holistic, person-centred approach to assessment, which includes taking an ankle brachial pressure index (ABPI) reading and involves the patient in decision-making will help nurses to make effective clinical decisions and plan care in partnership with patients. This article discusses a three-stage assessment and clinical decision-making process, which involves looking at the whole person, assessing the leg and the wound. The next article in the series will examine compression hosiery and adjustable wraps for the management of the lower limb.