We are pleased to now provide comprehensive wound care for acute and chronic wounds. Wounds are openings in the skin that expose the underlying support structures of the body. There are numerous causes to these sores, such as:
- Poor blood flow to or from body parts
- Trauma
- Non healing surgical sites
- Pressure
- Diabetes
- Radiation
- Autoimmune diseases
- Swelling
Wounds are not merely just open sores; they are a sign of something wrong inside the body. Because of this, much investigation is needed to figure out the source of dysfunction. Diagnostics may be needed to find the source of the issue, such as:
- ABI (Ankle brachial index)
- Venous and arterial duplex
- TCOM (transcutaneous oximetry meter)
- Cultures
- Lab work
- Biopsies
Skin ulcerations or wounds can take weeks to months to heal. The goal of wound closure nationwide is 14 weeks or less. There are many factors that can affect these outcomes, but usually with patient compliance this is an achievable goal.
Initial assessment will include an in depth medical and surgical history, medication review, and history of the current wound. Measurements and pictures will be taken at each visit to document improvement/non-improvement of the wound by the wound specialized nurse. The physician will then examine and (potentially) clean the wound and a comprehensive plan of care will be determined by wound care team. Any supplies needed to care for the sore will be ordered and shipped to the home if daily care is needed, though some wounds may necessitate a home health nurse or a dressing that is only changed by the wound care staff.
Just as each patient is different, so are wounds. We will continually assess the response to treatment and may change the plan of care according to this response. Education regarding lifestyle changes (if needed) will be provided for each patient and will be emphasized at each assessment.
We look forward to working with your or your loved one to care for those stubborn or hard to heal wounds!