Caring for vascular leg ulcers: essential knowledge for the home health nurse.

Vascular leg ulcers are a significant clinical problem. Home health nurses play a critical role in caring for clients with vascular leg ulcers and require an understanding of the pathogenesis and treatment of these ulcers. This article differentiates the pathogenesis of venous and arterial ulcers and describes the critical aspects of their treatment. Interventions include modifying activity, promoting blood flow, applying compression therapy, providing local wound and skin care, improving nutrition, and treating infection.