Stasis ulcers are skin wounds that develop on the legs and feet as a result of certain circulation disorders. They are also called venous ulcers and, if not managed properly, can cause mobility problems, infections, and even loss of the affected limb. If you want to live in your home and maintain your independence as much as possible, a personal home care provider may be able to help. Here are some things that a personal home care provider can do for you to help manage your stasis ulcers and keep you safe, healthy, and more independent in your home.

Ulcer Care

The personal home care provider can perform wound care on your stasis ulcer in accordance with your doctor's orders. While some personal home care providers cannot perform skilled nursing interventions such as intravenous medication administration, they can administer basic ulcer care. For example, your in-home caregiver can cleanse your stasis ulcer with sterile water or another solution as directed by your primary care physician, apply topical medications such as antibiotic ointments, and apply bandages to your wound.

They can also monitor your stasis ulcer for signs of infection such as increased redness, inflammation, drainage, odor, bleeding, and increased pain. If signs and symptoms of an infection develop, the home care provider will call your doctor

Compression Stocking Assistance 

Stasis ulcers are caused by improper circulation, however, special garments known as compression stockings can help promote venous circulation to help your stasis ulcer heal. The caregiver can properly put on your compression stockings and remove them before you go to bed at night. It is essential that the compression stockings are worn properly because if they are put on improperly, they can actually impair your circulation and slow down the healing process.

The caregiver will also wash your stockings if they become soiled from drainage or blood. In addition, they will periodically monitor the circulation in your legs for coldness, abnormal color, and swelling These signs can indicate a worsening in your venous circulation, and if present, the in-home caregiver will notify your primary care doctor.

If you have stasis ulcers and require assistance to manage them, consider the above benefits that a personal home caregiver can offer. When stasis ulcers are monitored and well-managed, the risk for increased pain, mobility problems, and infection will decrease, allowing you to live a healthier and more independent life in your home.

Call a care provider, such as Moonlight Home Health Care, if you need home care. 

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