Supporting patients with venous leg ulcers in self-care monitoring: an interview study with primary health care professionals

Abstract

Objective This study described the experiences and perceptions of how primary health care professionals (PHCPs) support patients with venous leg ulcers (VLUs) in self-care monitoring. Design A qualitative approach with reflexive thematic analysis was used, with 24 individual qualitative open interviews. Setting Primary health care clinics and community health care in four southern regions in Sweden. Subjects Registered nurses, district nurses and nurse assistants who had experience of caring for patients with VLUs. In total, 24 interviews were conducted with PHCPs in Sweden. Results PHCPs have a vital role in promoting patient independence and responsibility, identifying needs and adapting care strategies, while also recognising unmet needs in patients with VLUs. Conclusion PHCPs actively monitor patients’ self-care and establish caring relationships. They see a need for a structured primary health care work routine for ulcer management.