The Application of a Protocol of care for patients referred to Plastic Surgery Department for Chronic Wound Management comparing hydrofiber dressings to standard care

Despite modern advances in wound care pressure ulcers continue to be a challenge within the United Kingdom. The estimated annual National Health

Service (NHS) cost of wound care is £2.3bn - £3.1bn

(3% of total 2005/06 expenditure on health (Posnett and Franks 2007

The aim of this study was to review the current trust guidelines, revise a protocol of care for patients referred to the plastic surgery specialist team for chronic wound care. The revised  protocol reflects the current recommendations published European Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel and National Pressure Ulcer advisory Panel (2009). 

The authors examined the risk and benefits of standard care over a 12 week period in the prevention and management of pressure ulcers using a hydrofiber dressings. Case studies demonstrate the changes implemented as an example of interventions used to improve staff education, patient outcomes in both costs and quality of care.