SPECIAL SESSION: Wound Management Innovation Research: Programs, Partnerships and Practices

Description/Overview: This presentation will demonstrate the need for innovative treatments and practices to reduce the impact of chronic wounds. Despite standard treatment principles and improved wound products, wound healing rates are not declining as expected. Clients presenting with chronic wounds are generally older and likely to have a range of co-morbidities. A challenge is that care needs to be based on an understanding of the complex interplay of the underlying pathological conditions, age-related changes and principles of chronic disease management. To achieve this, three programs of innovative research are being led by nurses to more fully understand the development of chronic wounds, wound healing and recurrence in older people. These include: studies examining molecular profiles, clinical manifestations, and physical and psychosocial symptoms for clients with leg ulcers; translational studies to determine effective strategies for implementing existing evidence into practice; and studies testing new models of service delivery to meet clients’ needs and maintain care costs. A strength of the research is that all studies are being conducted in partnership with clients, clinicians and heath care facilities. In addition, the presentation will outline the importance of conducting wound research within an interdisciplinary, national and international context.