What is it about?
We asked healthcare staff about their experiences of caring for people with both heart failure and lymphoedema. Many described uncertainty about when and how to use compression therapy, gaps between different services, and the need for clearer guidance, joint training, and stronger collaboration to support safe and consistent care.
Featured Image
Photo by Samuel Ramos on Unsplash
Why is it important?
This study reports quantitative findings from a UK survey of 342 healthcare professionals. While compression therapy is central to lymphoedema care, very few heart failure specialists used it, and most staff wanted more training. Referral pathways and compression in heart failure were identified as top priorities. The results highlight the urgent need for integrated education, clearer guidance, and shared care models to ensure safe, effective care for patients with both conditions.
Perspectives
Working on this article reinforced for me how much professionals want to do the best for patients but often lack the confidence and guidance to do so. It was rewarding to see such a strong call for joint education, and I hope these findings will support new opportunities for training and collaboration across specialities.
Dr Garry R Cooper
University of Central Lancashire
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Lymphoedema and heart failure staff educational needs analysis: insights from a UK online survey. Part 2: quantitative findings, British Journal of Community Nursing, October 2025, Mark Allen Group,
DOI: 10.12968/bjcn.2025.0085.
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