The application of modified compression to prevent leg ulcer recurrence in the Republic of Ireland

Background: Compression therapy is considered best practice for healing and preventing venous leg ulcer (VLU) recurrence, however, some comorbidities require that modified compression be applied. A range of terminologies, application recommendations and compression amount for modified compression are found in the literature and guidelines. This could implicate how these recommendations are transferred into clinical practice. Aim: To investigate clinical practice regarding the application of modified compression to prevent recurrence of VLU in the Republic of Ireland. Methods: Descriptive qualitative design was used, with six experts in compression and wound management recruited from Ireland. Semi-structured interviews were used to gather data, and reflexive thematic analysis was completed. Results: We identified four themes during data analysis; inconsistent understanding and terminology usage; clinical context influences; issues with standard compression application; and focus on healing (non-routine monitoring) with associated subthemes. Conclusions: This research indicates that the application of modified compression to prevent the recurrence of leg ulcers is limited within clinical practice, with inconsistent terminology used, application methods, and non-routine monitoring to prevent recurrence. Reported systemic barriers impact the ability of these services to provide best practice to people with leg ulcers. Declaration of Interest: No conflict of interest to declare.