Amanda Steinhauser recently wrote a blog piece (Wound Source August 2017) discussing how accurate outcomes reporting improves patient care. She made an interesting statement
FDA has approved L-glutamine powder (oral administration) for the treatment of sickle cell disease. Hydroxyurea has been the gold standard for many years however it has been identified as a causal agent of spontaneous, painful lower leg ulcers in small numbers of patients. Glutamine is
A recent study by Nassaji, Ghorbani and Shkofte concluded that Atorvastatin may have a role in preventing diabetic foot related infections. They point out that whilst statins have a lipid-lowering effect, they also demonstrate anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory actions. Their observations are supported by work done
In NSW the price of electricity rises by 20% this month. Wage and pension increases are at all time lows and have been for some time. However the cost of utilities, vehicle registration, insurances, pharmaceuticals, council rates and food continue to increase. People are either
Pressure injury is recognised as commencing in deeper soft tissues and by the time that skin changes are visible it is generally too late to avoid tissue damage. Visual inspection of skin over bony prominences is an important assessment and care activity. However, an objective
Until recently I had never heard of Podoconiosis. It presents in a very similar fashion to the better known Elephantitis or Filariasis, which produces chronic oedema with its accompanying skin changes and limb deformity. Filariasis is mosquito bourne and involves the habitation of a round
Smoking Drugs - opioids, steroids, anticoaggulants, illicit Diabetes Obesity (BMI >40 there is a 51% chance of infection within 6 weeks of the surgery) Pre-eclampsia Prior C-section Poor nutrition Ischaemia (normally intra, peri and post-op) Retained foreign bodies - sutures, clips, drains, dressing materials
Dr Aletha Tippett is a member of the Advanced Wound Team with the Hope of Healing Foundation in the USA. She recently reported on the modern day utilisation of leech therapy and described this modality being used for the following indications : surgical flap salvage,
In collaboration with the Australian College of Nursing, I am presenting a two-day "Wound Management Update" at the John Hunter Hospital on April 10&11, 2017. This CPD short course (12 hours) is designed for registered and enrolled nurses who provide wound care in the acute
Thank you to all my friends and colleagues for your marvellous support for The Wound Guy throughout the year. I am looking forward to sharing a fabulous 2017 with you all and wish each of you a happy festive season as 2016 draws to its close. Kind