[Venous ulcers: clinical characterization and treatment in users treated in outpatient facilities].

Venous ulcer represents a challenge for health's professionals, because it's a chronic injury, recurrent and with biologic and psychosocial impact. The aim of this study was to characterize the venous ulcers of outpatients attended in curative rooms of the municipal health network and describe the treatment received. This descriptive study, carried out from October 2009 to July 2010 included 58 people. Data were collected using protocol that involved an interview, physical examination, application of scale, photographic record of the lesion and planigraphy. The results showed lesions with poor healing and treatment in violation of the main recommendations of the literature in the area. We conclude that it is necessary to rethink the organization of services to better serve this population.