Why you should read this article:

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To enhance your knowledge of the potential benefits of using an automated device rather than a Doppler assessment to measure and calculate ankle-brachial pressure index (ABPI) ratios

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To be aware of how a specific leg ulcer pathway could improve wound care and management in general practice

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To understand how optimising the care of patients with lower leg wounds could result in time and cost savings

Patients who present to general practice with a complex lower limb wound or vascular concerns are often referred to other services for review, which may cause delays to their assessment and treatment. To provide prompt assessment and management for patients with lower leg wounds or vascular concerns, a service improvement project was developed to provide a pathway for these patients. Automated ankle-brachial pressure index (ABPI) devices were supplied to 19 GP surgeries and one community vascular clinic in the project region, with training, protocols and project leadership also provided. General practice nurses undertook automated ABPI readings for patients with a wound or vascular concern and provided appropriate care. Patients with complex wounds and those with vascular concerns were referred to other services where appropriate. This article describes the results of the service improvement project and its effect on patient care.