Information for patients using compression therapy

An information sheet for patients using compression therapy is provided in Compression therapy—patient information sheet.
Figure 1. Compression therapy—patient information sheet.

Patient information sheet

Your health professional has recommended the following compression therapy as part of your treatment plan.

Class of compression prescribed_______________________(mmHg)

Product name___________________________________________________________________________

Size or style ____________________________________________________________________________

Type of compression: bandage / hosiery / tubular system / other____________________________________

To be applied by_____________________________when (how often)______________________________

To be worn: daytime only / day and night / other instructions:______________________________________

Benefits of compression

Compression therapy for venous leg ulcers improves the chance of healing and encourages faster healing. It also reduces the risk of another ulcer forming, and controls swelling. Other symptoms (such as heaviness or aching in the legs, tingling or burning in the feet) may also improve with compression therapy.

Risks of compression

When you start compression therapy, you may experience some discomfort as it starts to work—this is not unusual.

However, look out for the following:

  • pain, especially over bony areas such as shins or ankles
  • colour change of the toes, especially if they become pale or blue
  • tingling or numbness, especially in the toes or feet
  • increased pain or severe tightness at night.

If you have any of the above, contact a health professional immediately. If this is not possible, remove the compression at once and see a health professional as soon as possible.

Other problems that may occur include:

  • shortness of breath when lying flat, or waking gasping for breath
  • skin damage
  • excessive ooze from the ulcer.

If any of the above occur, contact your treating health professional as soon as possible.

If any problems occur, contact (person or organisation)__________________________________________

(phone number)___________________________(other contact details)_____________________________

(days and times available)__________________________________________________________________