Safe to compress
A holistic assessment is important prior to deciding the most appropriate treatment options avaiable. Assessment in treating lower limb conditions should involve a recording of the ankle brachial pressure index (ABPI) - this non-invasive test can show if there are any problems in the arterial system and will give a definite 'number' to know how much, little or no compression is appropriate. As an add-on to this - some patients may require a TBI (toe brachial index) to give further information. This is now available as a easy one-minute reading. Physical debridement with a sterile, pre-moistened cloth is a way to assess what is happening in a wound or on the skin.
