HLSC 618: The Management of Venous Ulcers - Nursing Assignment

Internal Code: MAS6481

Nursing Assignment:

Venous ulcer also is known as stasis ulcer is identified as the most common ulcers among the old population that results in full thickness skin loss to lower extremities (Dendale,2016). It has been estimated that about 400,000 Australians suffer from venous leg ulcers (Sussman, 2014). These ulcers are sometimes treated in primary care, or in the community depending on its severity which alone results in healthcare costs up to over $2 billion per year according to Australian wound management association. Moreover, the episodes of reoccurrence is expected to rise due to increase in aging population and high prevalence of diabetes and obesity, which in turn will add to further health care costs (Gottrup, Apelqvist &, Price, 2010). Despite their high prevalence, venous ulcers are often neglected and inadequately managed. Poorly treated venous ulcers can result in soft tissue infections, contact dermatitis, osteomyelitis and, more rarely, neoplastic transformation (Abbade&; Lastória, 2006). Nurses have an important role in assisting patients as they step through the winding road of recovery. Referring patients to appropriate resources is essential like wound clinic, physiotherapy, dieticians etc. In order to initiate such referrals and to provide appropriate treatment, nurses need to have good background knowledge. Ylönen, Stolt, Leino-Kilpi, and Suhonen (2014), identified that the need for positive work culture development and ongoing training sessions which focus on improving nurses knowledge in the treatment of venous ulcers is essential. Questions: 1. Explain about venous ulcer, different types of ulcers and diagnosis of it. 2. Demonstrate the management of venous ulcers and different stages of wound healing 3. Demonstrate correct neurovascular assessment and nurses role in the management of venous ulcers 4. Demonstrate the correct application of compression therapy