Topical antimicrobial dressings for locally infected leg ulcers: late-stage assessment

You should have access to a topical antimicrobial dressing that is clinically appropriate and meets your needs and preferences.

You and your healthcare professional should decide together which topical antimicrobial dressing to use (see the NICE webpage on shared decision making). Decisions should take into account how the choice of topical antimicrobial dressing might affect your quality of life, including your:

• physical health
• mental health and wellbeing
• relationships with others
• ability to complete day-to-day activities.

Things to consider when having treatment for a locally infected leg ulcer

• You should, where possible, be offered options that meet your needs and preferences.
• You should be involved when deciding which topical antimicrobial dressing to use.
• You should be given information on the antimicrobial dressing that is being prescribed.
• You should be given support if you have any problems and want to change to another type of topical antimicrobial dressing.

Information and support

The NHS webpage on venous leg ulcers may be a good place to find out more.

The Lindsay Leg Club Foundation (01473 749565) can give you advice and support.

You can also get support from your local Healthwatch.

NICE is not responsible for the quality or accuracy of any information or advice provided by these organisations.

ISBN: 978-1-4731-7063-6