Wound dressings Resources

Preventing and managing wound infection has sometimes resulted in inappropriate prescribing of antibiotics and overuse of topical antimicrobial wound dressings. This is partly due to the difficulties in identifying the early signs of wound infection and uncertainty as to who is at risk. This article guides the reader through the importance of considering antimicrobial stewardship (AMS), how to identify at-risk patients, how to reduce the risk through wound bed preparation, and how to identify wound infection. When reviewing wound infection management strategies, it particularly focuses on the role of non-medicated wound dressings, which are becoming a viable alternative to traditional antimicrobial dressings such as silver and iodine.

The cost of treating wounds in the UK is comparable to obesity or cancer, and has a considerable impact on healthcare budgets. However, wound care receives surprisingly little attention, with education on this topic overlooked within the wider healthcare sector. Inadequate training can result in varying levels of care, impacting on patient outcomes, quality of life, and time and money spent on care. This article discusses the importance of accessible and flexible education. It looks at the National Wound Care Strategy Progamme, which aims, among other goals, to improve access to education for practitioners, patients and carers. The importance of continued professional development (CPD) and its impact on patient outcomes and quality of service is also addressed. It then goes on to look at the types of education available, and how we can keep up with the rapid developments in wound care science and available treatments.