Preventing cellulitis in older people with persistent lower limb oedema.
Persistent lower limb oedema is an underestimated problem in the elderly population. Oedematous tissue predisposes the individual to the development of bacterial infections. Accurate assessment of the underlying aetiology and application of compression hosiery could prevent cellulitis and reduce the risk of recurrent episodes. Awareness of the complications of leg oedema needs to be raised in the general population. Healthcare professions require education to enable the provision of safe, effective treatment to reduce morbidity relating to chronic oedema and cellulitis. The 'National Service Framework for Older People' and the 'British Lymphology Society's Framework for Education' could facilitate the development of national service provision to meet the needs of the population with chronic oedema.
Binscombe Medical Centre, Binscombe, Godalming, Surrey.
Julie
J
Stalbow
D000368:Aged; D001458:Bandages; D002481:Cellulitis / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000451:nursing / Q000517:prevention & control*; D002908:Chronic Disease; D003428:Cross Infection / Q000517:prevention & control; D004487:Edema / Q000150:complications*; D006801:Humans; D007866:Leg; D012307:Risk Factors