British journal of community nursing
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Br J Community Nurs · Jan 2003
ReviewUnderstanding exudate management and the role of exudate in the healing process.
Studies suggest that wound fluid from acute wounds may have a beneficial effect on wound healing, whereas that of chronic wounds may inhibit healing. Changes in the volume and nature of exudate provide information on the underlying state of the wound and may give an indication of an increasing bacterial load and the presence of infection, and if a wound is likely to proceed to healing. Careful monitoring of the exudate can provide information for the application of systemic and local therapies. Individual wound care products have specific functions which relate to the volume, viscosity and nature of the exudate and these should guide skin care and dressing selection.
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Br J Community Nurs · Oct 2002
Clinical TrialAchieving value for money? Evaluation of two wound dressings.
During the past three decades there has been dramatic increase in spending on wound dressing products in the UK. While the rise in costs in many ways reflects a rise in the performance of the products purchased, it remains vital that nurses charged with prescribing such products achieve value for money. ⋯ In each case observed, involving both primary and secondary dressings, no deficit in clinical performance was noted but potential cost benefits were identified. The authors conclude that these initial findings are encouraging and further studies are required to address this important area of wound management.
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Br J Community Nurs · Jun 2002
ReviewLife after shingles: the management of postherpetic neuralgia.
Chronic pain may have devastating effects on the physical and psychological well being of many patients (Harden, 1999). Most community nurses are in contact with a number of patients with chronic pain and will be asked for advice and recommendations with regards to its management. Chronic neuropathic pain is a complex and sometimes intractable condition that patients will seek help for, from either GPs or from the community nursing teams. This article will examine one neuropathic pain syndrome - post-herpetic neuralgia - and review the evidence base in relation to treatment strategies, in an attempt to support community staff in the management of this difficult to treat pain syndrome.
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Many patients are now having minor surgical procedures carried out in the community and those patients who undergo surgery in hospital are likely to be discharged earlier due to increasing pressure on hospital beds. This article discusses the management of surgical wounds healing by both primary and secondary closure, in the community setting. Understanding the complex process of wound healing is essential if nurses are to recognize abnormalities and select appropriate treatments for patients. ⋯ Choosing the correct type of surgical wound dressing for the type of wound can contribute to wound healing, patient comfort and the cost-effectiveness of treatment. Factors that need to be taken into consideration when choosing a dressing will be outlined and suggestions made for the type of dressings that would be most appropriate. The importance of accurate and detailed documentation will be highlighted as part of this process.