The effect of continuing education on practical wound management

A three-day continuing education programme in wound management was evaluated to determine its success in changing clinical practice. Twenty-six registered nurses from various disciplines were asked to complete three questionnaires, two during the course and one retrospectively. All but two of the nurses participated in the survey. The findings demonstrated that theory made a significant difference to practice. However, ongoing education programmes and ward-based support are necessary to ensure that the knowledge gained continues to be applied in the practice setting.