Compression therapy in the prevention and treatment of venous diseases – a cross-sectional study

Introduction:
The aim of the study was to evaluate nurses’ knowledge of selected statements in the use of compression therapy in phlebology according to selected characteristics of nurses.

Material and methods:
A cross-sectional study using a self-constructed 28-item questionnaire was conducted in 2023. Respondents included 330 nurses (103 practical, 179 general, and 48 general with specialization) from several dozen clinical workplaces in the Czech Republic. As part of the data analysis, descriptive, regression, and cluster analyses in an exploratory mode were applied.

Results:
The respondents obtained an average of 19 points on the 16 multiple-choice items in the knowledge test, which is a 49% success rate on the test. They were most successful in answering question 19, which focused on the symptoms of venous thrombosis, and least successful in answering question 14, which focused on the method of checking the pressure under the bandage. Work position had the greatest influence on the level of knowledge. Practical nurses scored almost 3 points more on the test and general nurses about 2 points more than specialized nurses. The respondents’ post-graduate education also had a positive effect on their knowledge (in terms of factual and statistical significance).

Conclusions:
The results of the study show that there are major deficiencies in the application of compression therapy among the respondents. Improper compression can cause complications that can seriously harm the patient. Health care providers should provide mandatory training for nurses.