Unna Boots... to cover the heel or not?

[jnette, ASN, EMT-I]

Seems to be some difference of opinion amongst coworkers. Some state they were taught to leave the heel uncovered, others insist the heel should always be covered. Since I haven't had much experience with these until now, thought I'd gather some expertise on this subject from all of you !

Thanx in advance. :)

[P_RN, ADN, RN]

I don't believe I've ever covered a heel. Most of the ones I can remember were above the ankle. What would be the reason to cover and unaffected area?

[jnette, ASN, EMT-I]

Pedal edema, I suppose... ?

The instructions state to start wrapping behind the first metatarsal, but no mention is made of whether or not to wrap the heel. We do have several patients with significant BLE edema, including the foot.