Application of Compression Stockings (TED Hose)

Key Points

• TED hose must be applied with correct heel alignment and smooth, wrinkle-free fit.
• Toe perfusion and pressure should be checked after application.
• Proper fit and skin monitoring help prevent pressure injury and circulatory compromise.
• Use follows an ordered schedule (commonly morning application and nighttime removal) with fabric-care steps that preserve compression integrity.
• In venous-insufficiency care, compression use is paired with position changes, leg elevation, and prolonged-standing avoidance to improve venous return.
• Patient teaching should include wrinkle-free fit, traction footwear, and safe mobility habits to reduce clot and fall risk.
• In postoperative pathways, combine compression with early ambulation and leg-exercise routines because stockings alone do not fully prevent stasis-related thrombosis.

Equipment

• Compression stockings (TED hose)
• Hand hygiene supplies

Procedure Steps

1. Perform routine pre-procedure actions: knock, identify resident, explain procedure, provide privacy, and perform hand hygiene.
2. Verify provider order for stocking length/pressure and scheduled wear times.
3. Raise bed height as needed and position resident supine with bed flat.
4. Expose only the leg being treated.
5. Roll or turn stocking inside out to heel pocket.
6. Place stocking over toes, foot, and heel.
7. Verify heel marker is correctly positioned.
8. Confirm stocking is not twisted and writing (if present) is facing outward from skin contact surface.
9. Gently roll/pull stocking up leg to ordered length (knee or hip).
10. Check toes for pressure or compromised circulation signs.
11. Adjust to smooth out wrinkles; ensure even compression without bunching.
12. Ensure toe opening is positioned correctly (fully over toes or fully at toe base) to avoid localized pressure or circulation compromise.
13. Repeat on opposite leg if ordered.
14. Teach resident/patient to keep fabric smooth, avoid walking without assistance plus nonslip socks or traction shoes, and report pain/numbness/skin changes promptly.
15. Complete post-procedure comfort/safety checks, perform hand hygiene, and document TED hose application with any pain/skin or status changes.
16. At removal time per order (commonly nighttime), hand-wash stockings with mild soap/water and air-dry; avoid heaters or laundry processing that can shrink or damage elastic compression.

Common Errors

• Misaligned heel pocket → uneven pressure and poor therapeutic effect.
• Wrinkled/bunched fabric → focal pressure injury risk.
• Skipping toe/circulation check → delayed recognition of compromised perfusion.
• Pulling roughly over fragile skin → skin tear risk.

Related

• immobility-complications - Compression support is one intervention used in immobility-risk care plans.
• documenting-and-reporting-data - Accurate recording of application and tolerance supports continuity.