How living with a leg ulcer affects people's daily life: a nurse-led study
Rich, A.; McLachlan, L.
Journal of Wound Care 12(2): 51-54
2003
ISSN/ISBN: 0969-0700 PMID: 12655967 Document Number: 566127
This descriptive phenomenological study explored patients' experiences of living with a leg ulcer. Eight participants (five female and three male) were recruited from a secondary care leg ulcer clinic in a large UK teaching hospital. All had current venous leg ulceration, lasting between five months and 34 years. Data collection was via in-depth semi-structured interviews. Data categories were: symptoms; treatment; perceptions, emotions and coping strategies; and restrictions. Leg ulcers have a significant impact on individuals' lives. The degree to which this occurs varies between each person. Patients need consistent treatment that incorporates benchmarking. A support network to address the needs of those living with a leg ulcer should be considered. This study's findings should be promoted to raise awareness among health-care professionals, enabling them to provide more responsive care.