ABSTRACT
Graduated compression, using bandaging or compression stockings, is the gold-standard treatment for the management of venous leg ulcers (VLUs) and preventing recurrence. However, achieving the required pressures on different parts of the leg is extremely difficult, even for experienced practitioners. Inappropriately applied compression can result in delayed healing and poor compliance. Graducheck® is a pressure sensor system that ensures that the prescribed level of compression is being applied accurately. This study aimed to determine if two experienced tissue viability nurses (TVNs) could achieve accurate pressures using four commonly used bandage systems, as measured using Graducheck sensor strips. Ideal pressures were not achieved, but in two systems, once the application pressure was adjusted according to the sensor level, ideal compression was achieved. In the remaining two systems, ideal pressures could not be produced, even after adjustments to application. Clinically, the Graducheck system could improve the standard of compression therapy, as real-time feedback ensures that corrections can be made. However, further work is required to determine why ideal pressures were not achieved in two of the tested systems.
