Measuring chronic wounds

What is it like to have a chronic leg ulcer? How does the wound impact on quality of life? What aspects of a clinician's communication matters to a patient's engagement and participation in their care?

Shin injuries can result in skin breaks (wounds), swelling, blood blisters and haematomas. Dressings have a role to play in appropriately covering a wound. However, it is the use of compression based on a good assessment of the limb which is most responsible for expediting recovery.

Lower leg swelling is common, even more so as we age. How can it be recognised for what it is and what simple things can be done to minimise it.

Tracking wound healing progress requires simple objective data upon which clinical decisions can be made. Photographs of wounds should be supplemented with measurements of wound dimensions and also images of the used wound dressings - which allows for exudate monitoring (recording exudate type, consistency and volume). It is recommended that measurements and photographs be taken weekly or upon any significant change in wound presentation.

If a person has diabetes and reduced sensation in their feet, the appearance of callous on load-bearing surfaces (where the foot touches the ground) is a warning sign of pressure & shear trauma. This can lead to foot ulceration. Removing callous is essential for the health and function of the foot and lower limb.

Wounds do not exist in isolation. Individuals with complex wounds require a sound assessment strategy which is linked to goals for intervention and adequate measurement to inform on the attainment of these goals.