Stroke Training and Awareness Resources (STARs)


Optimising adherence to IPC

  • Write IPC on medication chart – but it does not need to be prescribed by a doctor – a nurse can write this up
  • Ring 3x per day to remind the nurses to check the legs regularly and to ensure IPC is working properly
  • Explain to patients (and remind them) that IPC reduces risk of DVT and improves their chances of survival
  • Apply to one leg if unwilling to have it on both – best applied to the weak leg which is at greater risk of DVT
  • Apply for part of the day or night
  • Educate all staff to replace sleeves and switch on after therapy, bathing etc
  • Use of IPC is being monitored in national audits in England (SSNAP) and Scotland (SSCA)

Page last reviewed: 23 Apr 2020