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1Louise Herrington School of Nursing, Baylor University, USA. amy_roberts@baylor.edu
Purpose:
To describe the assessment and management of chronic wounds and detail current recommendations for optimal wound care practices.
Data Sources:
Selected scientific literature, clinical practice guidelines, and the authors' clinical experience.
Conclusion:
Multiple factors play a role in the problems associated with chronic wounds. Wound care is costly in regards to medical care, as well as costly in terms of the hardship placed on the patient, family and staff. Too often, wound care practices are based on rituals than research.
Implications For Practice:
The assessment and management of chronic wounds needs to be individualized according to a thorough assessment of the wound, the patients' lifestyle, and the caregiver's knowledge and skill for managing th wound. It is also important to know what wound care products are available and the types of wounds appropriate for their use.