Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse (CWON) Practice Test

What is modified compression therapy and who is it typically for?

1. 10-20 mmHg for patients with ABI less than 0.5

2. 20-30 mmHg for patients with ABI between 0.5 and 0.8

3. 30-40 mmHg for patients with chronic venous insufficiency

4. 30-40 mmHg for patients with lymphedema

The correct answer is: 20-30 mmHg for patients with ABI between 0.5 and 0.8

Modified compression therapy refers to the application of graduated compression to manage conditions such as venous insufficiency and lymphedema, aiming to improve venous return and reduce swelling. The key aspect of selecting the appropriate level of compression involves understanding the patient's Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI), which assesses the presence of arterial disease. In this context, an ABI between 0.5 and 0.8 indicates that there is some degree of arterial flow compromise, but it is sufficient to tolerate moderate levels of compression without risking further complications. A compression level of 20-30 mmHg is deemed appropriate for patients within this ABI range as it provides therapeutic benefits without posing significant risks of vascular occlusion. This is crucial for managing conditions like chronic venous insufficiency, where improved venous return can lead to symptom relief and improved quality of life. The other options involve either inappropriate compression levels for their corresponding ABI status or apply to conditions outside of those typically addressed by modified compression therapy. Understanding the relationship between ABI and the appropriate compression levels is essential for safe and effective treatment in various vascular conditions.