Wound Center
Do You Have a Wound That Won't Heal?
This article was first published in Health View, February 2001.
Carolinas Hospital System's Wound Center offers the latest treatments to cure chronic wounds that sometimes plague patients for years.
For the occasional skinned knee or that nasty little paper cut, a band-aid will do just fine. But when wounds won't heal and cause severe pain and suffering for a person, a more comprehensive approach is required. The Wound Center at Carolinas Hospital System incorporates a multi-disciplinary approach to the treatment of chronic wounds that result from conditions such as diabetes or poor circulation.
Advances in medical technology have enabled people to live longer and longer, creating a need for innovative treatments and therapies that improve the quality of life. The Pee Dee Region's high incidence of diabetes makes the Wound Center an obvious asset to Carolinas Hospital System's broad range of services.
Unique to the Pee Dee Region, the Wound Center assesses the whole person, aiding patients in being proactive in their own treatment and incorporating therapies that heal wounds over a period of time. Dedicated nurses work with a variety of specialists to develop a treatment plan that takes into account every aspect of the patient's overall health.
"We don't just assess and treat the wound," says Pam Ward, RN, Director of the Wound Center at Carolinas Hospital System. "We treat the underlying problems that may have caused the wound in the first place."
Many patients with chronic wounds have never received any type of specialized care. Unless referred by a family physician, many people will not seek out a specialist for additional treatments or therapies that could improve their quality of life.
For example, a patient may develop a sore as a complication from diabetes. When treated at the Wound Center, the wound is measured and photographed and necessary tests are performed to help further evaluate the wound. The patient's medical condition is assessed and blood sugar levels are monitored. If indicated, an endocrinologist will examine the patient. If the patient could benefit from nutritional counseling, a dietitian or nutritionist will be called upon to help the patient develop healthy eating habits. This thorough evaluation of the patient by a physician gives patients comprehensive medical attention that improves their overall health and well-being.
The Wound Center offers a Free Wound Screening. "We will evaluate any open wound free-of-charge," says Ward. "If we feel our program will be beneficial to the patient, then he/she is admitted and routine visits will begin."
"The first step is to make the choice to get help. Don't be discouraged that your wound won't heal," says Ward. "Instead, be encouraged that a team of specialists stands ready to help you."
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