Objectives:       1.         Document factors that impact wound healing.

2.         Identify wound care technologies that promote healing and reduce pain.

Problem:  Chronic wound care is a complex and often troubling process. 

Rationale: To be successful in the treatment of chronic/complex wounds, the best available scientific and clinical evidence must be utilized. Methodology:  A sample of convenience was employed in patient selection.  The study evaluated six patients with complex wounds. Each patient selected had a wound that was at least 30 days old and had failed to respond to other topical therapies. Four of the patients had surgical wounds, one had a diabetic wound and one had a traumatic wound.  All patients were first evaluated and then their wounds were treated. The treatment that was undertaken included the management of contributing factors; the provision of systemic support for wound health; the preparation of the wound bed; the provision of appropriate topical therapy; and the management of patient-centered concerns.  Results:  An optimal moist wound healing environment was created utilizing an antimicrobial soft silicone foam dressing.  Local impediments to wound repair were controlled and an environment favorable to healing was maintained.  Wound progress using an antimicrobial soft silicone foam dressing was documented and the results were compared with previous wound healing outcomes and costs. Conclusion: The study documented that the use of an antimicrobial soft silicone foam decreased healing time; reduced pain in all but one case; improved the quality of life of all participants; prevented complications; and contained costs. 

References:

·          Ayello EA. New evidence for an enduring wound healing concept: moisture control. J WOCN 2006. Vol 33. No 6S.

•          Brett DW. Impact on exudate management, maintenance of moist wound environment, and prevention of infection. J WOCN 2006. Vol 33. No 6S.

•          Cantrell S. The silver lining in wound care. HealthCare Purchasing News. May 2007.

•          Dykes PJ, Heggle R, Hill SA.  Effects of adhesive dressings on the stratum corneum of the skin. Journal of Wound Care. 2001, Vol 10, No 2.

•          Schwentker A, Billiar TR. Nitric oxide and wound repair. Surg Clin North Am 2003; 83:521-30.

•          Sibbald RG, Orsted HL, Schultz GS, Coutts P, Keast DH. Preparing the wound bed: Focus on infection and inflammation. Ostomy/wound Management 2003; 49(11):24-51.

•          Sibbald RG, Williamson D, Orsted HL, Campbell k, Keast D, Kransner D, Sibbald D. Preparing the wound bed:  debridement, bacterial balance and moisture balance. Ostomy/Wound Management 2000:46(11):14-35.

•          Sussman C, Bates-Jensen B. Wound Care: A Collaborative Practice Manual for Physical Therapists and Nurses. Aspen Publishing Inc. 1998.