Dealing with common lower limb problems in primary care: part two
Annemarie Brown, JCN 2017, Vol 31, No 4.
Click to read the abstract
Dealing with common lower limb problems in primary care: part two
Annemarie Brown, JCN 2017, Vol 31, No 4.
Abstract
This article is the second in a two part series on managing common lower limb problems encountered in primary care. The first article discussed the causes of oedema and its relation to underlying conditions, such as venous disease, lymphoedema and lipoedema. This article investigates skin care, the management of wet legs and the different types of compression therapy available to no n-specialist community nurses
Main findings
- This article provided an overview of the assessment and management of varicose eczema and lymphorrhea in the lower limb. The take home message for both conditions is that they needed to be managed well. For varicose eczema they suggested a short course of steroids to clear it up. For wet legs a superabsorbent dressing and compression.
- Their key messages included:
- Varicose eczema, lower limb oedema/lymphoedema and ‘wet legs’ are common conditions which have different management strategies.
- Effective skin care is an important element of treatment for patients with these lower limb problems.
- Healthcare professionals in primary care will encounter many patients with lower limb problems. It is important that they are able to provide optimum treatment.
- When caring for patients with venous disease or simple oedema/lymphoedema, healthcare professionals should be aware of the alternative treatment options now available.
- Healthcare professionals need to involve patients in treatment decisions and encourage them to self-care whenever possible.
