Abstract
It has been well established that ambulatory venous hypertension and accompanying chronic inflammation cause a major alteration in tissue and ultimately skin ulceration. In spite of considerable advances made in venous ulcer research, the underlying pathophysiology of chronic venous leg ulceration and the failure to heal is not completely understood. Currently there is considerable clinical and scientific research into the role of inflammatory and tissue cells and their mediators in wound repair. Few studies have addressed the possible contribution of free radical production to venous ulceration and little has been done to examine the role of iron in initiating and/or perpetuating tissue damage in venous ulceration. Interest in the role of iron in venous ulceration has come with increasing evidence implicating free radical generation by iron in other chronic inflammatory and iron– overload diseases. Conditions such as chronic inflammation, tissue ischaemia, activation of neutrophils and high levels of localised iron in the tissues are conducive to the generation of free radicals in venous disease. It is possible that iron may participate in tissue damage in a similar manner in which it does in other inflammatory disorders. However, this remains to be elucidated.

Abstract
Venous ulceration continues to be a significant cause of a poor quality of life for patients and a major burden on the Australian health dollar. It is estimated to cost $300-500 million per annum to manage. Prevention of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and the consequent chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) would have a major impact on the prevalence of venous ulcers. This review examines the incidence of DVT and pulmonary embolism (PE) in the community and determines the consequences of CVI and ulceration. Clinicians are encouraged to consider prophylaxis for this insidious condition.

Abstract
The increased focus on research and evidence for practice has seen changes in wound management practice. In the community, district nurses now, more than ever, want to control and own their wound management practice. The increased awareness of evidence based wound management practice has, however, caused conflict with some medical colleagues. Some district nurses have been asked to defend their wound management practice. The evidence from this review highlights considerations that need to be taken into account when using antiseptics, particularly povidone iodine. Povidone iodine has use as a skin preparation and for the management of burns, however, it is ineffective in the presence of body fluids, is toxic to fibroblasts and not recommended for prolonged use. Effective use of povidone iodine requires frequent dressing changes and, in the community setting, this is not best wound management practice. Other cleansing options are briefly discussed and the paper highlights the considerable debate regarding the effectiveness and safety of antiseptics.