Wound Care
Understanding Wound Care
Types of Wounds
Acute Wounds
- Surgical incisions
- Traumatic injuries
- Burns
- Lacerations
- Usually heal in a few weeks
Chronic Wounds
- Pressure ulcers (bedsores)
- Diabetic foot ulcers
- Venous leg ulcers
- Arterial ulcers
- Take longer than a few weeks to heal
Signs of Healing Wounds vs. Infected Wounds
Normal Healing
- Mild swelling and redness initially
- Decreasing pain over time
- Pink or red tissue forming
- Wound edges coming together
Signs of Infection
- Increasing pain, swelling, or redness
- Pus or foul-smelling drainage
- Fever or feeling unwell
- Red streaks from the wound
Basic Wound Care
Cleaning
- Gentle cleansing: Saline or clean water
- Avoid harsh chemicals: No hydrogen peroxide
- Pat dry: Don't rub the wound
- Clean hands: Always wash before touching
Dressing
- Change regularly: As directed by nurse
- Protect from trauma: Avoid bumping
- Monitor daily: Check for changes
Factors That Affect Wound Healing
Factors That Slow Healing
- Poor nutrition
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- Certain medications
- Advanced age
- Poor blood circulation
- Infection
Factors That Help Healing
- Good nutrition
- Adequate hydration
- Not smoking
- Good blood sugar control
- Proper wound care
- Adequate rest
- Following medical advice
During Your Hospital Stay
What to Expect
- Regular wound assessments by nurses
- Dressing changes as needed
- Pain management for comfort
- Education about wound care
- Monitoring for complications
How You Can Help
- Keep the wound clean and dry
- Don't pick at scabs or stitches
- Report any concerning changes
- Follow activity restrictions
- Take medications as prescribed
When To Seek Help
Contact your primary care provider or wound care nurse immediately if you notice
- Increasing pain, redness, or swelling
- Pus or unusual drainage
- Foul odor from the wound
- Fever or chills
- Wound edges separating
- Bleeding that won't stop
- Red streaks extending from the wound
Wound Care Resources
Wound Care Clinics
Adventist (Shady Grove and White Oak locations)
Medstar (Georgetown)
Wound Care Agencies
Personic Health