Keywords

CARE Act, chronic wound, electonic medical record, evidence-based care, framework, nonhealing wounds, wound electronic medical record

Authors

1. Howell, Raelina S. MD
2. Gorenstein, Scott MD, FACEP
3. Gillette, Brian M. PhD
4. DiGregorio, Julie CCRP
5. Criscitelli, Theresa EdD, RN, CNOR
6. Davitz, Matthew Sontag BS
7. Woods, Jon S. MD
8. Acerra, Michael BA
9. Brem, Harold MD, FACS

Abstract

GENERAL PURPOSE: To describe the development of an evidence-based wound electronic medical record (WEMR) framework for providers to execute timely, protocol-based, best-practice care for patients with chronic, nonhealing wounds.

TARGET AUDIENCE: This continuing education activity is intended for physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and nurses with an interest in skin and wound care.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES/OUTCOMES: After completing this continuing education activity, you should be better able to:

1. Summarize the development of a WEMR framework to enhance best-practice care of chronic wounds for both patients and providers.

2. Distinguish the clinical parameters known to delay wound healing and the evidence-based recommendations that informed the framework.

ABSTRACT: The care of patients with nonhealing wounds involves a host of treatment modalities. The authors developed a wound-specific framework to enhance provider management of these wounds and a summary sheet to involve patients and caregivers in their own healthcare to improve treatment adherence and outcomes. Implementing evidence-based practice for chronic wounds enables corrective actions to optimize care.