As a nurse on a busy med-surg unit I so appreciated "Teaching Wound Care to Family Caregivers" (Supporting Family Care-givers: No Longer Home Alone, March), specifically the tear sheet. This is a useful resource to give to family, friends, and patients. Despite the excellent resources provided in the tear sheet, however, I do feel it lacked some crucial information related to nutrition for wound healing.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, "Good nutrition is necessary for healing. During the healing process, the body needs increased amounts of calories, protein, vitamins A and C, and sometimes the mineral zinc."1

On the unit in which I work, I discharge many patients who will need to continue wound care at home. A commonality among patients and caregivers alike is that they want to take an active role in the healing process, yet often self-care or care of a loved one may seem overwhelming and intimidating-something to be done only by professionals.

Appropriate nutrition is a very tangible and accessible way for patients to participate in their own care, and when provided with the proper resources I find many patients are happy to follow the nutrition guidelines.

Lani Bemak, RN

Asheville, NC

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