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Leg ulcer - venous - Management
Which compression bandaging should be used?
- The choice of multi-layer bandage system is based on the person's ankle circumference.
- Four-layer, 3-layer, or 2-layer compression bandaging may be used.
- Use 4-layer or 3-layer compression bandaging when the person is immobile.
- Use 2-layer compression bandaging for someone who is ambulant.
- Compression therapy should always be applied by a healthcare professional trained in venous ulcer management.
Clarification / Additional information
- Three-layer and 4-layer compression consists of three or four levels of bandage, applied from the base of the toes to the knee (over a contact dressing) in the following order:
- Sub-compression wadding bandage.
- Light support bandage, such as cotton crepe bandage.
- Light compression bandage, such as knitted elastomer and viscose bandage.
- Cohesive bandage (a bandage that adheres to itself to prevent movement of dressing).
- Two-layer compression is the application of a short-stretch (inelastic) bandage over a sub-compression wadding bandage. Shoes can be worn if 2-layer compression bandaging has been applied.
Basis for recommendation
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