References
Interventions in infected venous leg ulceration in clinical practice
Abstract
Annemarie Brown explores the vital role practice nurses play in caring for patients with infected venous leg ulcers. In particular, recognising signs and symptoms, management, and the threat of antimicrobial resistance will be discussed
This article aims to inform practice nurses of the management of infection in venous leg ulcers which they may encounter in clinical practice. It outlines the infection continuum, how to recognise the signs and symptoms of an increasing bacterial burden and how this can be effectively managed to prevent the patient developing a systemic infection. In view of Government policies to reduce the inappropriate use of systemic antibiotics, guidance on using topical antiseptics and antimicrobials is discussed, together with information on the various products available. The signs of sepsis are discussed to ensure that readers are familiar with this life-threatening condition.
Any breach of the skin, such as a wound, will cause bacteria to develop as a result of being open and exposed to the elements for a long time (Barrett, 2017). Venous leg ulcers, like all chronic wounds with a long healing time, are at risk of developing wound infection. Careful observation and a timely response to subtle signs can prevent a systemic wound infection developing. In order to achieve this, it is helpful for health professionals to be familiar with the continuum of wound infection and to be able to intervene appropriately before a systemic wound infection develops.
Contamination is when microbes (bacteria and fungi) are present, but at levels that are not causing any problems with the wound. No treatment is necessary but frequent observation and on-going reassessment is required (Edwards-Jones and Flanagan, 2013; International Wound Infection Institute (IWII), 2016).
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