Audit of the use of compression hosiery in two NHS Trusts

Background: Compression therapy is integral in the treatment and prevention of venous and lymphovenous disorders. Methods: An audit of 42 nurses from Worcestershire Health and Care Trust and Worcestershire Acute Hospitals Trust was conducted to identify factors influencing decision making when selecting compression hosiery. Results: The most common reason given for using compression hosiery was to prevent ulcer recurrence, and the majority reported using British Standard off-the-shelf hosiery. Nurses were most likely to have their compression hosiery selection influenced by patient concordance. Conclusion: While there was evidence of sound practice, particularly in terms of the use of compression hosiery to prevent chronic venous disease progression, this study highlights a need for practice development and education for nurses in the use and selection of compression hosiery