8. Insufficient Venous Return

what is venous insufficiency?

poor blood return caused by blocked veins or damaged valves that let blood flow backward

• leads to venous stasis

what are risk factors for venous insufficiency?

• sitting or standing in one position for a long time

• previous deep vein thrombosis

• obesity

• pregnancy

what are common manifestations of venous insufficiency?

• edema

• stasis dermatitis (swollen/inflamed skin)

• pain

• altered pigmentation (brownish discoloration)

what is the most serious complication of venous insufficiency?

venous ulceration (typical around ankles)

what is the goal of management for venous insufficiency? *

reduce venous stasis and prevent leg ulcers

what helps manage venous insufficiency? *

• elevate the legs for 15-20 during the day and in bed

• sleep with legs elevated

• avoid crossing the legs and constricting garments

• use compression stockings

• encourage ambulation

• avoid prolonged sitting or standing•protect the extremity from trauma

• keep the skin clean, dry, soft, and moisturized

• inspect the skin

when should elastic compression stockings be applied? *

after the legs are elevated and swelling is at a minimum

what is cellulitis?

bacterial skin and soft tissue infection

• swelling, redness, warmth, pain, fever, chills, sweating

how is cellulitis managed?

• antibiotics, including IV antibiotics if severe

• elevate the affected area

• apply cool packs until swelling goes down, then warm packs

• use extra caution in clients with circulatory or sensory deficits or diabetes