Assessing Wellbeing in People With Venous Leg Ulcers

Aims/purpose The negative impact of having a venous leg ulcer (VLU) on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is well-documented. In contrast, positive aspects of psychosocial health such as wellbeing are rarely measured, despite increasing evidence that wellbeing can improve physical health. This study begins to address this gap by developing and piloting a measure of wellbeing for these patients. Methods A standardised approach to questionnaire development was employed. A number of key themes were identified through a systematic review of the literature, consultation with patients, and health care professionals. From these themes a four-part questionnaire was developed, exploring how ulcer-related issues affect wellbeing. Cognitive interviews were carried out with VLU patients to test for response error and face validity. Findings Participants confirmed the relevance of questionnaire content. No major problems with comprehension or completion were identified. All respondents reported a range of difficulties and limitations in daily life, including pain. Despite this, the majority (75%) reported high levels of wellbeing. Respondents were happy with the content of the tool. Application in wound care practice The positive mental health identified by this measure of wellbeing would not have been captured through current HRQoL measures, which focus primarily on detecting problems such as anxiety and depression. The monitoring of wellbeing should be a priority for patients with VLU as part of the process of promoting physical healing. Further testing of the measure in patients with wounds is now necessary in order to establish the psychometric properties of the questionnaire, and its application in a clinical setting