Wound Care Proper Wound Care

Wound Care

Proper wound care is crucial for all patient health outcomes, but especially for three key populations: the elderly, individuals with advanced diabetic conditions, and burn victims. This exploratory research addresses various types of wound care and their efficacy with different patient populations and conditions. A literature review was performed using PubMed and the Academic Search Premiere through Cleveland State University's website. Search terms included new advances in wound care management, wound care teams, topical agents in burn and wound care, pressure ulcer treatment, clinical applications in wound care, and scar prevention and treatment. Results show that organizational challenges are especially crucial in the area of wound care. Improper nurse training, lack of wound care specialization, improper use of the latest tools and technologies, and the lack of standardization are specific issues that may inhibit positive patient outcome. Effective wound care begins with nurse training and standardization of wound care procedures.

Conclusion:

Wound care is shifting from a peripheral issue in nursing to a central matter, especially in relation to key patient populations such as the elderly, individuals with advanced diabetic conditions, and burn victims. A review of literature shows that standardized wound care promotes positive patient outcomes within these three patient populations. Proper wound care includes identifying different stages in wound healing; determining courses of treatment; and executing courses of treatment compassionately and with a good bedside manner.

Moreover, research demonstrates the three main areas of weakness in current approaches to wound care. First, there are weaknesses in nurse training. Certification for wound care are available but wound care is not typically addressed as an area of specialization for nurses. There is a corresponding lack of wound care training for nurses in key fields including those who work with diabetics. Research shows that proper wound care can minimize complications related to lack of mobility including bed sores, and reduce the rates of amputations. Comprehensive wound care training is therefore essential for nurses working with the elderly, diabetics, and burn victims.