Recommended frequency of ABPI review for patients wearing compression hosiery.

This paper is a sequel to the article ‘How often should patients in compression have ABPI recorded?' (Furlong, 2013). Monitoring ankle brachial pressure index (ABPI) is essential, especially in those patients wearing compression hosiery, as it can change over time (Simon et al, 1994; Pankhurst, 2004), particularly in the presence of peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Leg ulceration caused by venous disease requires graduated compression (Wounds UK, 2002; Anderson, 2008). Once healed, compression hosiery is required to help prevent ulcer recurrence (Vandongen and Stacey, 2000). The Royal College of Nursing (RCN, 2006) guidelines suggest 3-monthly reviews, including ABPI, with no further guidance. Wounds UK (2002) suggests that patients who have ABPI<0.9, diabetes, reduced mobility or symptoms of claudication should have at least 3/12 Doppler, and that those in compression hosiery without complications who are able to report should have vascular assessment yearly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]