Wound Care And The Stages Of Healing
Posted on: 10 November 2018
As people grow older, their skin changes considerably. It becomes thinner, and the collagen that provides cushioning and structural framework decreases production. The skin has less elasticity and is dry. This makes skin conditions more common and wounds don't heal as quickly. Conditions like obesity and diabetes further delay wound healing. Here is what you should know about wound care.
Who Handles Wound Care?
In many hospitals and other healthcare settings, nurses with specialized training take care of assessing and treating wounds. They also teach family members how to care for them. Certified nursing assistants also help care for wounds.
What Constitutes A Wound?
Some wounds are purposeful, arising from surgical procedures. Others are from accidents, which can include everything from falls to burns. In bedridden people, such as those with advanced Alzheimer's disease or other dementias, they are prone to pressure ulcers, commonly called bedsores. These are caused by damaging skin that is exposed to constant pressure, usually on bony areas, such as the tailbone. Lastly, people who have diabetes or circulation problems due to being overweight can develop skin ulcerations from the lack of blood flow.
How Do Wounds Heal?
Wounds go through several stages in the healing process. In an open wound, such as that made by a surgical incision or an accident that breaks the skin, healing begins with bleeding. The blood congeals and forms clots to begin the process of closing up the wound. This is called hemostasis.
The next stage is inflammation. The body sends extra fluid to the area to help stem the bleeding and keep the wound clean. This is why wounds will often seep a clear-ish liquid. White blood cells arrive to help prevent infection. Inflammation is a necessary part of the healing process.
Next, the wound progresses to the proliferative stage. This is the stage that most people view as "healing." The body is busy growing new skin and blood vessels to cover the wound and gradually close it up. The new skin is usually pink and has irregular edges. This process works better when the skin is kept moist.
The final stage is the remodeling stage. This occurs when the wound is fully closed, and collagen has rebuilt the tissue. Emergency repair cells that are no longer necessary die off, and collagen production continues to further heal the area.
What Can Go Wrong With Wound Healing?
The biggest risk is infection. Wounds can regress in stages if infection sets in. The stages can also be delayed by malnutrition, uncontrolled diabetes, dehydration, and unsanitary practices and conditions. For these reasons, it's extremely important that wounds are closely monitored by healthcare professionals.
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