Introduction

Chronic wounds are a growing problem worldwide. An estimated 1-2% of the world’s population will experience a persistent wound and its morbidity in their lifetime. Prevalence in those older than 65 increases to 3.6%, and in those older than 80, it is more than 5%. While lifestyle factors in high-income countries can contribute to increased prevalence, so too can a lack of resources in low- and middle-income countries. Physiotherapists have a unique skill set that lends itself to wound care. The time spent with patients combined with their knowledge base and critical thinking skills allow physiotherapists to see the big picture; they not only provide care but coordinate resources and referrals. In this programme, Dana Palmer will cover key aspects of wound identification, assessment, personalised management, and prevention from a physiotherapy perspective.

Aims

This programme of courses will equip you to identify and assess different types of wounds, develop individual treatment programmes, and provide education and resources on prevention and further management. This programme aims to address multiple facets of care, including factors to consider in areas with limited resources or unreliable access.

The role that physiotherapists and other rehabilitation professionals play in wound care will vary by region, practice act and scope of practice, and it is important to be informed about the regulations where you practice. If you are not involved with wound care directly it is still important to understand wound care principles to consider during patient assessment and management and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Outline

This programme will cover the following topics:

1. Skin Anatomy, Physiology and Healing
2. Characteristics and Identification of Arterial and Venous Insufficiency Ulcers
3. Characteristics and Identification of Neuropathic Wounds, Pressure Injuries and Non-healing Surgical Wounds
4. Factors Affecting Wound Healing
5. Basic Wound Assessment

Target audience

This course is aimed at Physiotherapy and Physical Therapy clinicians, students and assistants. Other interested professionals such as athletic trainers, occupational therapists, nurses or medical doctors interested in this subject are also invited to participate.