Differentiating Arterial vs. Venous Ulcers

Contact Hours: 1.5

Author(s):

Carlana Coogle DNP, RN, CEN

Course Overview

This learning module will discuss the three most common types of leg/foot ulcers: venous stasis ulcers, neurotrophic (diabetic), and arterial (ischemic ulcers). Additionally, we will cover the main differences between arterial vs. venous ulcers, as this can become quite confusing at times. Following, we will review the circulatory system’s pathophysiology, ensuring an understanding of blood flow and the vital role arteries and veins have on circulation. Lastly, we will discuss the presentations of each type, the common causes, risk factors, generalized treatments, and patient education.

Course Outline

  1. Introduction
  2. Circulatory Pathophysiology Review
  3. Venous Ulcers
  4. Arterial (Ischemic) Ulcers
  5. Neurotrophic (Diabetic) Ulcers
  6. Diagnostic Tests for Ulcers (6)
  7. Non-Diagnostics for Ulcers
  8. Conclusion

Course Outcomes

After completing this course, the learner will rate 4 out of 5 on the Likert Scale for their ability to:

  1. Identify one assessment that would differ between a venous, arterial and neurotrophic ulcer.
  2. Explain the reason for the pain associated with arterial ulcers.
  3. Identify the most common etiology associated with neurotrophic ulcers.
  4. Name two diagnostic tests used for further evaluation of ulcers.

Accreditations and Approvals

CE Credit Logo
  • American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) (P0614)
  • California Board of Registered Nursing (CEP 17418)
  • Kentucky Board of Nursing (7-0090)
  • Louisiana State Board of Nursing (58)
  • Florida Board of Nursing (50-23983)
  • Delaware Board of Nursing (DE-24-010127)
  • Alabama Board of Nursing (#ABNP1577)
  • Iowa Board of Nursing (#393)
  • Kansas Board of Nursing (LT0340-0325)

Approved by the Board of Nursing in every state, you can complete your RN, LVN, and APRN CEUs with confidence.

Accreditation Statement

Nursing CE Central LLC is accredited as a provider of nursing continuing professional development by the American Nurses Credentialing Center's Commission on Accreditation.

It will take the average learner 90 minutes to complete and awards 1.5 contact hours of continuing education.

Written For

  • Registered Nurses (RN)
  • Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRN)
  • Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN/LVN)

Requirements for Completion

  1. Enrollment in the course by the learner
  2. Read and learn all course materials
  3. Complete the course evaluation
  4. Attest and testify learning of the course materials

Disclosure of Relevant Financial Relationships

Nursing CE Central nor any of the authors, planners, content experts, or any contributors have any relevant financial relationships with ineligible companies to disclose.