In patients with venous and lymphovenous disease, skin changes to the lower limb(s) occur gradually, and become more serious over time if left untreated. The CHRonic Oedema Signs and Symptoms (CHROSS) Checker is a tool kit consisting of an assessment chart and key cards that have been developed to help clinicians easily identify the skin changes that occur as a result of underlying venous and lymphovenous disease, when carrying out holistic patient assessment. It also provides clear guidance on which compression products can be used to manage the disease type and severity of skin change. For clinicians unfamiliar with some or all of the signs and symptoms listed on the CHROSS Checker chart, the key cards contain further information in the form of a photograph, definition and cause of each sign and symptom listed. This article will describe the theory behind the development of the CHROSS Checker tools and explain how to use them in clinical practice.
Janice Bianchi, Independent Medical Education Specialist and Honorary Lecturer, Glasgow University
Andy Kerr & Sylvie Hampton discuss the use of the Clini Duo40 venous ulcer compression system in treatment and prevention of venous ulceration.
Andy Kerr RN, Dip HE is a Tissue Viability Consultant.
Sylvie Hampton MA, BSc (Hons), DpSN, RGN is a Tissue Viability Consultant. Wound Healing Centre, Eastbourne.
Morag McKenzie discusses the use of compression therapy for a variety of leg ulcers
Morag McKenzie RGN, BSc Community Health Nursing, PG Dip Wound Healing & Tissue Repair is a District Nurse, Ormiston, Lothian Health Board, Scotland,
Article accepted for publication: December 2009
