Use of the intermittent pneumatic compression device in venous ulcer disease.

The intermittent pneumatic compression device is a relatively new treatment for patients with venous ulcers. With the advent of this therapy being used by the patient in the home setting, the nurse is the primary point of contact for patient questions, concerns, and patient education. Nurses need to know the optimal compression pressure, inflation time, and sequencing time cycles to advise patients in the proper use of this therapy and how to screen patients for its safe use. The major contraindication for this therapy is the presence of deep venous thrombi. A review of the literature is presented, concluding with a recommended scientific basis for optimal compression pressure, inflation time, and sequencing time cycle pattern for the intermittent pneumatic sequential compression device in the venous ulcer patient population. Patient education strategies and topics are discussed.