Why Nurses Should Wear Compression Socks?
Although many professions require people to be on their feet for long periods, Nursing is one of them. Standing, walking for hours, sometimes up to 12 hours or more, nurses usually do not find any real-time to take a rest, especially when a critical operation is going on, making their legs and feet exhausted, tired and swollen. The blood circulation of their legs is inhibited because gravity works against them, putting extra strain on legs, resulting in pain and other medical conditions such as varicose veins and spider veins.
Thus, compression socks for nurses are an effective, most affordable solution. Wearing of these socks prevents blood clotting and pooling, encouraging consistent and proper circulation around the feet, aiding in curing swelling and minor aches and pains. As a nurse, purchasing compression socks must be on your shopping list, but before buying the socks, please do read more about different compression levels that are measured in mmHg and see which is the right fit for you!
Types Of Compression Stockings
There are 3 main types of compression socks:
- Knee-High (Stops just below the knee): knee-high compression socks are worn below the bend of the knee just above the curvature of the calf. These socks are often stretchy and might be pulled up over the knee but refrain from doing so because are designed Knee-High for a reason, to treat specific conditions thus, it can be dangerous if you wear them without proper guidance.
- Thigh-High (Worn at the top of thigh): these stockings cover the entire legs up to your thighs, just below the buttock. These compression stockings are made to cover the entire thigh area because it is intended to increase and improve blood circulation throughout your legs.
- Waist-High (Worn up to the waist): these compression stockings have both legs connected to your torso position. They are used to bring swelling up and out from your legs through the hips, which is a key distinction between a thigh-high and waist-high compression stockings. For women, maternity plus size stockings have a stretchable and highly expandable belly portion.
- So which one should you pick? The general rule of thumb says that first, you have to see the area which is affected on your legs. If you have minor swelling in ankles, then a knee-high stocking will be great but if the swelling is above the knee, consider wearing a thigh-high compression. However, consulting a doctor first is the most preferred way.
Important Features Of a Compression Sock For Nurses
Compression socks come with various features that allow nurses to experience therapeutic benefits. While purchasing the right compression stocking, consider the following criteria:
- The material of the compression sock must be durable, strong, and stretchable. Look for Polyester, Nylon, or Spandex.
- The material must be breathable and expandable so that it can be worn easily.
- Compression socks must be comfortable and provide consistent blood flow without causing discomfort and irritation on the skin.
- Look for a different size and different compression pressure socks, it must NOT be “one-size-fits-all.”
- The compression sock must have a graduated compression technology that forces the blood and fluid from the ankle up to the calf or thigh.
- An added advantage can be to look for vibrant colors and patterns.
So don’t worry a lot while purchasing, just remember the above-mentioned features and the most important thing is the fit. Fit is critical because the best and most effective compression socks are the ones that fit right!
Laila Azzahra is a professional writer and blogger that loves to write about technology, business, entertainment, science, and health.