There are many medical procedures and practices that seem to constantly change. As a nurse, these changes can be difficult to keep up with. Wound care is one area that can be especially tricky to stay up-to-date on. Fortunately, a leading nursing staffing agency in Portland, Oregon is here to provide nurses with essential tips regarding wound care:
- Wound Care is Ever-changing
The longer you work as a nurse, the more changes you will notice over time. For example, instead of doing the Braden Scale wound assessment within twenty-four hours upon patient arrival, it is now done only eight hours after arrival. Don’t let change throw you off your game… anticipate it!
- Expect Changes in Documentation and Terminology
Changes in the way you must document information are difficult to get used to, but they are inevitable. It is vital that charts match the current terminology; otherwise, the charts will not communicate as effectively as they should, thus creating confusion. For example, the terms “pressure ulcers” and “decubitus” are now referred to as a “pressure injury.” Consistency across the board is essential when health is at stake.
- Pay Attention to the Healing Rate
There IS a proper healing rate for wounds, and it is important to pay attention to whether or not a patient’s wounds are synonymous with that rate. Within three or four weeks, a wound should be reduced to half of its initial size. If this is not the case, a new treatment option should be considered.
- Educate When You Can
If you see your co-workers using the wrong materials or practices when treating a patient’s wounds, do not hesitate to kindly correct them on it. With the right approach, they will not feel judged or attacked. Simply talk to them in a collaborative way and let them know that new practices have been instated.
Though it is difficult to keep track of the frequent changes in patient care, putting in the effort to adhere to them will not only help you continuously become the best nurse you can be, but it will create the best possible outcomes for your patients!
Express Healthcare Professionals in Tualatin, OR is one of the top Full-Service Nursing Agencies that progressively surpasses expectations by placing clinical staff in per diem and contract positions throughout the Greater Portland area and across the nation.
Express Healthcare Professionals
7401 SW Washo Ct #101
Tualatin, OR 97062
(503) 272-6386
