REMEMBER

Good nutrition and hydration play a very important role in healing. People who have wounds may need extra calories, protein, vitamins, and minerals. The following nutrients found in food can assist in wound healing.

YOUR GUIDE TO WOUND CARE

NUTRITION

Please contact your nurse or doctor if you experience any of the following:

• Increase in pain • Increase in wound discharge or a

change in discharge smell or colour • Swelling • Redness • Increased temperature

Sydney District Nursing is supported by funding from the Australian & State Governments under the HACC and CCSP Programs. Although funding has been provided by the Australian & State Governments, the material contained herein does not necessarily represent the views or policies of either Government.

Protein: Needed to maintain and repair tissue. Protein can be found in meat, poultry, fish, milk, milk products, beans, nuts, seeds, soy and soy products.

Vitamin C: Needed for the growth and the repair of tissue in all parts of your body. It is used to heal wounds and form scar tissue. Vitamin C is found in blackcurrants, oranges, grapefruit, kiwi fruit, raspberries and broccoli.

L-Arginine: Needed during periods of body growth or healing. It controls many body functions, some of which help wound healing and tissue repair. L-Arginine can be found in nuts, seeds, seafood, egg yolk, beans, red meat and poultry.

Make sure you drink plenty of fluids. Dehydrated skin is less elastic, more fragile and at risk of breakdown and tearing. Remember to reduce the amount of alcohol and caffeine you drink because they can make you dehydrated.

Your specific instructions:

PLEASE NOTE: This brochure is a guide only. If you have any concerns or questions after reading this brochure you should talk to your nurse or doctor.

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DRESSINGSLOOKING AFTER MY WOUND TREATMENT

It is important to remember that every wound is different therefore you will have an individual care plan written for you that you should follow. These tips are a guide only and do not replace your individual care plan.

• If you have been instructed by your nurse to clean your wound, you should use a hand held shower hose and lukewarm water. Make sure you thoroughly rinse the wound of any soap or shampoo etc.

• If you don’t have a shower to clean your wound, use tap water or normal saline (you should avoid tank water). Your nurse will let you know what is best for your wound.

• Avoid getting soap or talcum powder on your wound. Do not use antiseptic lotions.

• Pat around the wound gently with a clean, fresh towel each time to dry it.

• Do not leave wet dressings on your skin as this will soften your skin and may cause it to breakdown.

• Your nurse will advise you if you need to cover the wound after it has been cleaned.

It is VERY important to wash your hands before and after attending to your wound.

• Many of the dressings used by the nurses keep the wound moist. Moist wounds are less painful and heal faster.

• Some dressings don’t need to be changed often. Some can be left on for up to 7 days. Please speak to your nurse before changing your dressing.

• Sometimes wounds become infected. You may be asked to see your doctor and the frequency of your dressings may change.

• Some dressings are waterproof. The nurse will let you know if you can get the dressing wet in the shower.

• You are encouraged to attend to your own dressing or to have your carer assist you.

• The nurse can provide education and support.

• If you are attending to your own dressings and are being provided with supplies from the nurses, please note we are required to review your wound at least once a week.

Start by working with your nurse to make a plan that you can follow for your wound and skin care:

• Follow the treatment instructions. Your nurse will watch your progress closely.

• Attend to any tests requested so that you, your doctor and the nurse understand clearly your best wound care options.

• Keep all your appointments.

• Wear your compression bandage or stocking every day if this is part of your plan.

• Eat a balanced diet and drink plenty of fluids (unless advised otherwise).

• STOP or reduce smoking.

• Exercise gently.

• Get adequate rest.

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