Essential elements of wound diagnosis

"The evaluation of the patient with a non-healing wound consists of three components - subjective history, medical history, and wound assessment.

The histories will usually allow the clinician to make a diagnosis of wound etiology, and if not, at least know what needs to be ruled out.

They will also give indications as to why the wound is not healing.

The wound assessment provides data for objective, measurable outcomes and progress, as well as information on how to treat the wound initially.

The most important aspects of treating any wound are to treat all underlying co-morbidities and to address any issues that may be impeding wound healing.

Finally, the initial treatment will consist of appropriate debridement of necrotic tissue and application of a dressing that will ensure adequate moisture for wound healing to advance"--.