ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this study was to determine the incidence of incorrectly sized knee-high graduated compression stockings (GCS) and skin irregularities in the lower legs of postoperative orthopedic patients. METHODS: Using a descriptive study design, researchers evaluated a convenience sample of postoperative orthopedic surgical patients on each postoperative day. Surgical and non-surgical legs were measured to determine the appropriate size for knee-high GCS, and lower legs were assessed for the presence of skin irregularities (edema, erythema, ecchymosis, blistering, excessive coolness or warmth, breaks in the skin integrity) using standardized criteria. The size of GCS in use was recorded, as well as confounding variables of sex, age, and body mass index. Data were summarized with descriptive statistics, with incidence of incorrect GCS size or skin irregularities calculated as a percentage of total subjects studied. FINDINGS: Fifty-two postoperative orthopedic patients were evaluated on their operative day and on postoperative days 1 to 3. Contrary to anecdotal observations before beginning this descriptive study, the incidence of incorrectly fitting GCS was low (< or = 10%), and only 2 of 52 (< 4%) subjects had any skin irregularities in the lower leg during the study period. CONCLUSIONS: The incidence of incorrectly sized GCS and skin irregularities under GCS for postoperative orthopedic patients was small.
