Treating wounds

Approximately five million patients a year suffer from chronic wounds and the number will increase as our population ages. But if basic procedures are followed, many wounds can be prevented.

It is vital to understand the cause of the wound and the patient’s overall status before treating the wound. Here are some questions to help in assessment:

* What caused the wound?* What is the location of the wound?
* What kind of tissue is in the wound bed?* Is the wound draining?
* Is the patient incontinent?
* Is pain a factor?

After a patient is assessed and the above questions are answered, appropriate treatment will include:

* Wound dressings – occlusive, non-occlusive, absorbtive, debriding, etc.
* Sharp debridement – performed by a physical therapist or physician
* Nutritional support – vitamin, mineral or protein supplements may be needed to support wound healing
* Incontinence care – frequent and generous applications of barrier creams can prevent breakdown from incontinence
* Electrical stimulation – radio frequency, ultrasound, whirlpool and hyperbaric oxygen therapy