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Malignant wound management: what dressings do nurses use?
1Clinical Nursing Research Unit, Wentworth Area Health Service/University of Western Sydney Nepean, Penrith, New South Wales, Australia.
Journal of Wound Care
|April 2, 2002
Summary
This study surveyed nurses on malignant wound care, finding odor management and dressing costs are major challenges. Findings will inform best practice guidelines for complex wound management.
Area of Science:
- Oncology Nursing
- Palliative Care
- Wound Management
Background:
- Malignant wounds present significant physical and psychological challenges for patients.
- Effective nursing strategies for managing malignant wounds are not well-defined.
- Existing approaches often lack clear, evidence-based recommendations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify current nursing strategies for malignant wound management.
- To explore the difficulties encountered by nurses in managing these complex wounds.
- To lay the groundwork for developing best practice guidelines.
Main Methods:
- A quantitative postal survey was distributed to specialist oncology and palliative care nurses in New South Wales, Australia.
- The survey aimed to identify the types of dressings utilized in malignant wound care.
- Qualitative data was collected to understand associated challenges.
Main Results:
- Nurses face complexities in selecting appropriate dressings for malignant wounds.
- Key challenges identified include managing wound odor and the financial burden of dressings.
- A comprehensive list of currently used products highlights the lack of standardized care.
Conclusions:
- Current practices for malignant wound management are complex and lack clear guidance.
- Addressing odor and cost are critical issues for nurses and patients.
- This research provides a foundation for developing evidence-based guidelines to improve patient outcomes.