Wound infection: a clinician's guide to assessment and management

Wound infection significantly increases the cost of wound care and has significant detrimental effects on patients' quality of life. It is imperative that all health-care professionals are able to promptly recognise and assess for wound infection and initiate effective management. Clinicians must be able to recognise the different levels of bacterial bioburden and to act accordingly. This article provides clear guidance for recognising an infected wound, understanding the different levels of wound bioburden and practical guidance on different forms and appropriateness of antimicrobial agents.