About this service
A wound-care appointment reviews how the wound occurred, healing progress, infection risk and the most appropriate dressing approach. Some wounds need urgent, specialist or hospital care rather than routine clinic management.
Dermatology
Wound Care
Assessment, dressing support and practical guidance for suitable wounds.
What the pathway covers
- Wound history and examination
- Cleansing or dressing care where appropriate
- A plan for monitoring, dressing changes or escalation
Before your appointment
- Explain the cause, age of the wound and any surgery or treatment involved
- Bring current dressings, discharge information and medication details
- Seek urgent help for severe bleeding, spreading infection, fever or significant deterioration
What a wound-care review considers
A wound review looks beyond changing a dressing. The clinician may assess the wound’s cause, depth, location, drainage, surrounding skin, pain and progress since the injury or procedure. General health, circulation, diabetes, medication, nutrition and smoking can also influence healing.
The appointment may include cleansing, a dressing plan and advice about pressure, moisture and activity. If infection, poor circulation, wound breakdown or another complication is suspected, further assessment or referral may be more appropriate than routine dressing care.
Monitoring healing safely
Follow the specific dressing schedule and hand-hygiene advice provided. Do not apply antiseptics, creams or adhesive products unless they have been recommended for that wound. Healing time varies substantially and cannot be promised from appearance alone.
- Seek prompt advice for spreading redness, increasing heat, swelling, pus or worsening pain
- Get urgent help for heavy bleeding that does not stop with firm pressure
- Report fever, faintness, rapidly worsening symptoms or concern about a surgical wound opening
Important to know
Diabetes, poor circulation, immune suppression and deep or complex wounds may require specialist multidisciplinary care.
Next step
Ask about Wound Care.
Tell the team you are enquiring about Wound Care so they can direct you to the correct appointment.