INVESTIGATIONS & DIAGNOSIS, TREATMENT PLAN, APPLICATION GUIDELINES
INVESTIGATIONS & DIAGNOSIS
– Ankle Brachial Pressure Index (ABPI) required before application
– Safe range: 0.8-1.3
– ABPI <0.8 or >1.3: contraindicated, requires vascular referral (<0.8 suggests arterial insuff)
TREATMENT PLAN
Compression Classes:
– Class 1: 14-17 mmHg
– Class 2: 18-24 mmHg
– Class 3: 25-35 mmHg
APPLICATION GUIDELINES
– Check skin integrity before use
– Allow venous ulcers to heal before application
– Remove at night if possible
– Can be worn for up to 7 days continuously if needed
– Review every 3-6 months for effectiveness
CONTRAINDICATIONS
– Peripheral arterial disease
– Acute skin infections
– Suspected DVT
– Suspected skin cancers
– Fragile skin
– Severe lower limb oedema
– Peripheral neuropathy
– Previous peripheral arterial bypass grafting
KEY INFORMATION
– ABPI assessment is crucial before initiating compression therapy.