Abstract
Palliative care approaches that effectively manage distressful symptoms associated with wounds at the end of life remain elusive. This 4-week study examined a topical wound powder RGN107 for reducing pain, odor, and exudate in 50 patients with pressure ulcers, skin tears, and malignant/fungating and vascular wounds receiving hospice or palliative care and explored quality of life for the caregiver. Through an observational design, the outcomes were measured with visual analog scales, 2 pain questionnaires, and a caregiver quality-of-life instrument. Intent-to-treat analyses were used. Statistically significant reductions in pain (P = .001), odor (P = .04), and exudate (P = .00003) were observed. Caregiver quality of life remained unchanged (P = .28); however, improvements were noted in 3 subscales. Findings suggest topical RGN107 reduced pain, odor, and exudate in a highly challenged population with wounds at the end of life. A larger comparative effectiveness trial should be conducted with other wound powder comparators and usual care approaches and should include cost benefits.