14216 Wound Care Basics for the Non-Wound Care Clinician

Course overview

Covers the functions of the skin, including protection, immunity, thermoregulation, blood reservoir, excretion, sensation, metabolism, and cosmesis. It also describes the anatomy of the skin from the epidermis, dermis, appendages, hypodermis, and subcutaneous structures. The program examines the three depths of destruction: superficial, partial-thick, and full-thick; and looks at the phases of healing from hemostasis and inflammation to proliferation, maturation, and remodeling. It also explains options for closing a full-thick wound: primary, secondary, and tertiary intention. Optimal wound environment focuses on dry wound bed versus moist wound bed, as well as explains maintenance of temperature and the importance of keeping the wound clean. The program also lists signs and symptoms of infection, as well as suggestions for appropriate treatment options for wounds such as sunburn, blisters, abrasions, road rash, lacerations, and post-surgical incisions. Options for primary closure are explained, including stitches, staples, liquid tissue adhesives; as is how to care for the wound.