Wound Care

Wound care, also called wound healing, is the process designed to restore or heal an injury that causes an opening in the surface of the body or a break in the skin. Our staff has the knowledge, skill, experience, training and education necessary to effectively assist in wound healing – it is indeed a specialty.

To understand wound care, first it's important to have a basic knowledge of wounds themselves. Wounds can be the result of surgery, trauma or a chronic illness. Examples of traumatic wounds include contusions, abrasions, punctures, fractures, burns and frostbite. Chronic wounds, which can prove more difficult to heal, include pressure soars and diabetic ulcers. Wounds can also be divided into two general categories: open and closed wounds. Open wounds are clearly visible on the surface of the body, like lacerations, incisions and puncture wounds. Closed wounds are as dangerous as open wounds but may not be as readily apparent, such as contusion or bruises, or a crush injury cause by an extreme amount of force.

Wound care and healing reveals the most basic defense mechanism our bodies display against the outside world. The treatment of wounds depends upon the type of wound, the cause, the depth of the wound and whether it impacts tissue or organs below the skin. Proper cleansing and efforts to avoid infection are vital to promote the healing process. Some wounds, like lacerations, can be closed surgically, if they are less than 12 hours old.

With proper cleansing, medical oversight and and proper treatment, wound healing in most individuals typically occurs over a reasonable length of time. There are factors that can slow the healing process, such as diseases like diabetes, immobility or poor nutrition. A general rule of thumb is that if a wound does not heal within a month, medical intervention is necessary.