The work of patienthood ... what it means in clinical practice

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.

Wound dressings are often surrounded with mysticism and unrealistic expectations. Dressings don't heal wounds but can be used to generate an environment within which repair is likely to proceed. Selecting a dressing should be guided by goals and measurable outcomes, done so upon the basis of regular wound and peri-wound assessment.

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.

The organ we call the "skin" is otherwise known as the Integumentary System. This name better describes the physical structure and function of the skin. The Integumentary System interacts with the body's other systems. When all these other systems function optimally, then the Integumentary System can do one of its important functions - repairing a wound. If other systems are dysfunctional, then wound repair can become prolonged or stalled.