Compression therapy: scientific background and practical applications.

BACKGROUND

Compression bandaging is the most prevalent form of treatment for venous leg ulcers. Successful treatment requires knowledge of the appropriate materials and the ability to employ them following current guidelines. This study investigates German health-care providers for their knowledge of bandage materials and their practical ability in applying short-stretch compression bandages.

PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS

Within the framework of nationwide practical education on compression therapy, the participants' knowledge was quantified by asking standardized questions. Furthermore, their practical ability was evaluated by having them apply compression bandages within a pressure range of 50-60 mmHg. Another criterion was the pressure drop after a four-time dorsiflexion.

RESULTS

Overall, 891 providers (3.3 % physicians, 5.5 % medical assistants, 90.7 % nursing staff) participated. Within the practical test only few (just under 10%) applied the bandages with the intended pressure; 77.0 % applied them below and 13.7 % above the target pressure. After a four-time dorsiflexion there was an average pressure drop of 6.7 mmHg. Surveying the participant's skills revealed that only 11.9 % knew about padding beneath compression bandages, 15.0 % knew of multi-component systems, and 14.8 % were familiar with ulcer stocking systems.

CONCLUSIONS

Clearly, compression material and its application are unfamiliar to most practice employees. Without question there are deficits in the provision of compression therapy.