Wounds UK debate : rethinking lower limb cleansing in leg ulcer care
Atkin, Leanne Phillips, Kelly Robinson, Hollie Rytel, Eileen
Atkin, Leanne
Phillips, Kelly
Robinson, Hollie
Rytel, Eileen
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Affiliation
University of Huddersfield; Mid Yorkshire NHS Teaching Trust; Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust; South Warwickshire University NHS Foundation Trust; Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust
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Publication date
2025-11-05
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Abstract
Lower limb cleansing has long been regarded as a basic, even routine, aspect of wound care. Yet, as highlighted in the new International Wound Infection Institute consensus document on wound cleansing, it is far more than a simple hygiene task, it is a therapeutic intervention with direct implications for healing, comfort, infection prevention, and long-term skin health. Despite this, cleansing remains inconsistently delivered across community services, often competing for time and priority against what are perceived as more technical interventions. For patients with leg ulcers, the act of cleansing extends beyond wound bed preparation. It includes holistic lower limb care, removing debris, controlling odour, maintaining skin integrity, and applying emollients, all of which contribute to comfort, dignity, and quality of life. When neglected, the risks of recurrence, delayed healing, and skin breakdown increase, placing further strain on already stretched services.
Citation
Atkin L, Phillips K, Robinson H, Rytel E. Wounds UK debate: Rethinking lower limb cleansing in leg ulcer care. Wounds UK. 2025 Nov;21(4):40-43.
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Article