The Care of Wounds addresses all aspects of holistic wound management. The fourth edition of this successful clinical text continues to reflect current research and evidence-based practice, while incorporating the considerable developments which have occurred in wound care practice since the previous edition. It includes chapters on the physiology of wound healing, general principles of wound management, wound management products, and the management of patients with both acute and chronic wounds. The title is an essential read for all nurses and healthcare professionals working in the field of tissue viability and wound healing.
Comprehensive and clinically-oriented
Examines best practice in wound management
Incorporates national and international clinical guidelines where applicable
Superbly illustrated with full colour throughout
Preface vii
1 The physiology of wound healing 1
Introduction 1
Definitions associated with wounds 1
The structure of the skin 2
Wound healing 3
Impaired wound healing 9
Conclusion 12
2 The management of patients with wounds 15
Introduction 15
Physical care 15
Psychological care 39
Spiritual care 45
3 General principles of wound management 61
Introduction 61
Wound assessment 61
Managing wounds 77
Documentation 85
Evaluating the dressing 86
4 Wound management products 93
Introduction 93
The development of dressings through the ages 93
Traditional techniques 100
The use of lotions 102
Clinically effective wound management products 108
Modern wound management products 110
5 The management of patients with chronic wounds 127
Introduction 127
The prevention and management of pressure ulcers 127
The management of leg ulcers 149
Diabetic foot ulcers 165
The management of fungating wounds 170
6 The management of patients with acute wounds 185
Introduction 185
The care of surgical wounds 185
Traumatic wounds 199
The burn injury 205
Radiation reactions 216
7 The organisation of wound management 227
Introduction 227
Managing wounds in the community 227
Nurse specialists in wound care 228
Multiprofessional wound care 229
Wound healing centres 230
Conclusions 230
Index 233
