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Development of a Nutritional Intervention for Outpatients with Leg Ulcers

Nutrition as an integrated part of wound care

​This project comprises an observational study, a development phase, and a feasibility study. The aim has been to develop a nutritional intervention that can be implemented by wound care nurses in outpatient wound clinics, with the purpose of improving patients' nutritional status and promoting wound healing.​​​

Contact

Pia Søe Jensen
Mail: pjen0002@regionh.dk
Phone: 38 62 24 64​

Findings from the observational study, conducted at wound clinics at Hvidovre and Bispebjerg Hospital, demonstrated that nutrition is not currently integrated as a routine component of wound care. A manuscript is in preparation.

The development process resulted in an intervention consisting of three components: a dialogue tool, an informational leaflet, and the provision of protein supplements alongside a “green prescription". Overall, the feasibility study demonstrated high levels of acceptability and implementation, although the informational leaflet requires further refinement. Both patients and nurses perceived the intervention as relevant and meaningful. A manuscript is in preparation.

The project has been presented both internally and externally, including at the Danish Wound Healing Society Annual Meeting.


This pilot study investigates the relationship between nutritional status and the healing of chronic leg ulcers in patients receiving outpatient care at Hvidovre Hospital. The aim is to map patients' nutritional status, including muscle mass, protein intake, and quality of life, in order to identify barriers and opportunities for targeted nutritional interventions.

Using bioelectrical impedance analysis, handgrip strength, and dietary interviews, the study examines whether improving nutritional status may enhance wound healing and reduce the risk of complications, including amputation.

The study is conducted through interdisciplinary collaboration between nurses, physicians, and researchers and aims to inform future large-scale studies. The study is registered with the Regional Ethics Committee (VEK: F-25076787) and the Capital Region of Denmark (P-2025-19880).​


This project aims to develop a prediction tool to support general practitioners and community nurses in the early identification of individuals at increased risk of lower limb amputation.

The model builds on known risk factors identified in previous register-based studies and is further enriched with clinical knowledge and experience from practice. Through qualitative interviews with general practitioners and community nurses, insights are gathered on key risk factors such as smoking, BMI, and other clinical parameters. These insights are subsequently integrated into the development of the prediction model.

The project also includes a co-creation process involving clinicians and individuals with lived experience of amputation, who participate in workshops to develop the design of the tool and its accompanying informational materials. The aim is to produce a clinically applicable tool that not only identifies risk but also supports preventive actions and behavioural change.

The project will conclude with a feasibility study to evaluate the tool's applicability in clinical practice. Funding applications are currently being prepared.​

Further information

Jensen PS, Petersen J, Kirketerp-Møller K, Poulsen I, Andersen O. Progression of disease preceding lower extremity amputation in Denmark: a longitudinal registry study of diagnoses, use of medication and healthcare services 14 years prior to amputation. BMJ Open 2017; 7: e016030.

Jensen PS, Kallemose T, Kirketerp-Møller K, Juul-Larsen HG. Identifying long-term healthcare and sociodemographic risk factors for lower extremity amputation: a 10-year national registry-based case-control study in Denmark. BMJ Open 2025; 15: e112203.​​


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