Why do nurses need compression socks?
Nurses are on their feet without rest for extended periods of time, often for 12 hour shifts.
“In England, 32% of day shifts and 37% of night shifts are reported to be 12 hours or longer” Source: Nursing Times
The prolonged periods of standing can cause swelling, leg heaviness, tiredness and discomfort. All of this can lead to decreased levels of mental alertness. To prevent this, and to prevent later development of painful varicose veins, nurses should consider starting to wear compression socks as soon as possible in their career.
The compression rate generally prescribed for nurses, and other people standing for long periods, is Class 1 compression. This level provides up to 21 mmHg pressure.
The Interweave HealthyLegs compression socks provide this level of mild to moderate pressure. Therefore they are very suitable for nurses and other healthcare professionals standing for long shifts.